The Alexandria Mn Car Care Program marked a significant milestone on Monday, celebrating the donation of its 300th vehicle to a local resident in need. This achievement underscores the program’s long-standing commitment to improving transportation access for individuals and families within the community.
Formerly known as the Douglas County Car Care Program, the initiative has been running for seven years, extending its reach to serve both Douglas and Pope counties. A press conference held at Koep’s Korner in Alexandria served as the venue for this celebratory occasion. The 300th vehicle, a Pontiac Bonneville, was gifted to a recipient who preferred to remain anonymous and was not present at the event.
Kris Chisholm, the enthusiastic executive director of the Alexandria MN Car Care Program, expressed his excitement, stating, “We couldn’t be more excited than we could be today.” He highlighted the program’s profound impact, noting that 300 local individuals have experienced improved transportation circumstances, enabling them to reliably commute to work, attend crucial medical appointments, and ensure their children’s transportation needs are met. “We pride ourselves in that, and really feel like God was involved in every one of those stories,” Chisholm added, emphasizing the program’s dedication and the positive outcomes for recipients.
The 300th car donation is set to create a substantial positive shift in the recipient’s life, continuing the program’s legacy of impactful assistance. Notably, this particular vehicle was generously donated by a former board member of the Car Care Program, showcasing the ongoing community support that fuels the program’s success.
Beyond vehicle donations, the Alexandria MN Car Care Program has also facilitated repairs for 524 vehicles, providing crucial assistance to individuals struggling to afford essential car maintenance. In July, the program officially broadened its service area to include Pope County and has already gifted two cars to residents within the county, demonstrating its expanding reach and commitment to serving a wider community.
Students from the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) at Alexandria Area High School have been actively contributing to the Alexandria MN Car Care Program’s mission. These students have been instrumental in supporting the program’s expansion efforts through website development, marketing initiatives, and social media management, providing valuable skills and community engagement.
Adding powerful testimonials to the event, two previous car recipients, Betty Haskins and Candia Klug, shared their personal experiences after receiving vehicles from the Alexandria MN Car Care Program. Haskins received a Chrysler Town & Country, while Klug was gifted a Ford Focus Wagon.
Haskins recounted the precarious condition of her previous Town & Country, especially during a period when she required frequent trips to the Twin Cities for surgeries. Hesitant to seek help initially, Haskins eventually reached out to the program. “I had so much pride, I didn’t want to come in and ask for help,” she admitted. However, her meeting with Kris Chisholm changed her perspective. “When I finally went in and met with Kris … he said, ‘we all need help every once in a while.’” Haskins’s new Chrysler Town & Country fulfilled all her desired features, making it a significant upgrade and a source of immense gratitude. “It’s been quite the blessing. I just hope I can give it back in better shape than what I got it so that I can bless another person and that I can just keep going,” she expressed, highlighting her desire to pay it forward.
Candia Klug also initially felt apprehensive about seeking assistance from the Alexandria MN Car Care Program. As a single mother with a 14-year-old son, facing physical challenges, working in ministry, and studying full-time, Klug was navigating a demanding life. “I had a lot on my plate,” she explained. Her existing car, initially thought to require minor repairs, turned out to be beyond economical repair. The Alexandria MN Car Care Program provided Klug with a Ford Focus Wagon, perfectly accommodating her, her son, and their large dog. With reliable transportation secured, Klug is now excited to pursue travel and explore her interests, thanks to the program’s support.
John Peshek, a dedicated board member of the Car Care Program, emphasized the transformative impact of the program. “The program changes people’s lives in powerful and wonderful ways,” he stated. “I’m incredibly proud of this community,” Peshek concluded, acknowledging the collective effort that makes the Alexandria MN Car Care Program a vital resource for those in need. The program’s continued success highlights the strength and compassion within the Alexandria and Pope County communities.
