Collision Industry Foundation
Relief When It Matters Most
CIF supports collision repair professionals facing significant losses from natural disasters and other life-changing events. Through the generosity of donors, volunteers and industry partners, CIF provides emergency relief that helps individuals and families move forward with hope, stability and support — because when our colleagues need help most, We Answer the Call™.
CIF Celebrating 25 Years
Supporting collision repair professionals since 2001
For 25 years, the Collision Industry Foundation has stood beside collision repair professionals during life’s most challenging moments. Through the generosity of our industry, we’ve helped individuals and families recover from natural disasters, catastrophic events and unexpected hardships. As we celebrate this milestone, we’re grateful for everyone who has been part of our journey — and excited to continue answering the call for the next 25 years.
Calling 1,000 Donors.
Help us answer the call.
For 25 years, CIF has answered the call in times of unexpected crisis. To celebrate this milestone, CIF is launching a new “$25 for 25” campaign — an initiative designed to encourage individual giving and unite the industry around a shared mission of support and service. The campaign’s goal is simple yet powerful: inspire 1,000 individuals to contribute $25 in honor of CIF’s 25 years of impact, allowing us to continue our mission.
CIF Responds When Disaster Strikes
Vision
Provide Emergency Relief to Collision Repair Professionals
Mission
Secure and distribute donations to individuals who have experienced significant losses due to natural disasters or other catastrophic events.
Stories of Support and Recovery
Behind every donation is a person, family or business working to recover from unexpected hardship. Hear directly from CIF relief recipients as they share their stories of resilience, gratitude and the impact emergency support made during difficult times.
“It felt great that other people in the industry care about shops like us, and this gesture went a long way in helping us get back on our feet. No one else came back with any help, like FEMA or an insurance payment. This helped us buy a few things for the shop, and it was a nice feeling of hope. I would just ask that everyone keep donating for the future.”
Rosario DiGregorio
After receiving CIF assistance following Hurricane Sandy
“This storm hit us hard. It really meant a lot to us that there was a group out there that cared about what happened here. We didn’t know this was possible, and to have your own industry stand up for you is amazing and heartwarming. We can’t thank those who’ve donated enough for their generosity.”
Lev Schmidt
After receiving CIF assistance following Hurricane Sandy
“On behalf of me, my family, and my wife, I want to say a huge thank you to Snap-on Tools and the Collision Industry Foundation for all they have done for us. From making it possible for us to attend a great conference in sunny Palm Springs, California, where we met some of the industry’s best, to a generous donation of tools and a custom toolbox. With the replacement of my tools, I will be able to not only support my family but hopefully pay it forward by working to bring awareness of the industry to other soldiers and veterans. Soldiers who have PTSD and/or TBI, like me, can benefit from taking a damaged vehicle—kind of like our internal wounds—and working on it as therapy, making it beautiful again and showing progress.”
Sterling Keith
Speaking at the 2015 CIF Gala after receiving replacement tools and a custom toolbox
“Dear CIF Friends, we just want to say thank you for helping us during the Camp Fire disaster in Paradise, California. Your support has come at a time when our family needs it most, and we appreciate you very much. Michael Quinn has been such a blessing. Thank you.”
Patrick Luna & Family
After receiving help following the Camp Fire in Paradise, California
“I am so grateful our industry is rising up to help us. You just can’t imagine the devastation these families have experienced. We all have to help give them some sense of normalcy, especially for the children at Christmas. We were already a close-knit group in our town, and now this has pulled us even closer together. From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank all those across the country who have helped.”
Becky Rogers
After the Camp Fire destroyed her home and workplace and CIF helped organize a Christmas dinner and presents for affected families
“The show of support for my father and our immediate family has been remarkable and will not be forgotten. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated.”
Deborah
After the CIF Campaign of Caring raised money for the children of Andre and Jordan A., who lost their lives in the El Paso mass shooting
“This money helped put food on their tables, helped pay rent or mortgages or utility bills—the basic necessities that are needed when you are impacted financially after suddenly being laid off. To have an organization that steps up and helps our collision repair professionals during times of hardship and crisis is another reason I admire our collision community.”
Tammy Horvat
After CIF assisted four technicians who had been laid off because of the pandemic
“CIF has provided financial assistance to about a half-dozen of our laid-off employees. It was great to be able to offer this option to employees. It was actually amazing how quickly the Foundation was able to process it and get them the money. It went to people who really needed it. I remember the Foundation over the years raising funds to help individuals in the industry facing challenges because of Hurricane Katrina, the 2018 wildfires in California, and major flooding in 2016 in Missouri and West Virginia. To have my own staff be the recipient of that same type of support, I don’t think I’ll ever forget.”
Carl Garcia
After CIF provided COVID-19 assistance to laid-off employees
“I was impressed by how they were able to come in and help so many of our stakeholders beyond what we could do. Every little bit helps. We were fortunate to take advantage of it, and so were our people. It’s definitely a welcome contribution.”
Joshua Fuller
After CIF provided COVID-19 assistance to employees
“I learned about CIF’s COVID assistance from CRASH NETWORK. We wanted to show our employees that our industry is a giving one. What CIF did was above anything I would have imagined. All business owners know the challenges of managing our businesses, so managing a nonprofit like CIF through volunteers generous with their time, and supported by donors generous with their money, is nothing short of remarkable. Organizations such as CIF can be a safety net to a few or many—any filled need is better than none. I want to send an enormous thank you to each person who has touched CIF over the years, including those responsible for the original idea, those giving of themselves to operate it, and the many folks who have sent funds in the past and during these tremendously hard times.”
Camille Eber
After CIF provided COVID-19 assistance to employees
“I first learned about CIF last year, and I was impressed with the way CIF helped body shop employees when they were dealing with wildfires. When my business slowed down significantly, I reached out to CIF for assistance. When my employees received the checks from CIF, I was reminded of winning the Publisher’s Clearing House sweepstakes. It was awesome. It sure helped out our employees. They were really appreciative.”
Jerry Dalton
After CIF provided COVID-19 assistance to his employees
“Good afternoon, I wanted to send you an email and let you know that we received the checks. We presented the checks to our staff and also gave them some insight on what Collision Industry Foundation does. We want to thank you and Collision Industry Foundation from the bottom of our hearts. The room was full of smiles and tears at the same time. Our team is very thankful for your help. They all said it came at just the right time. Thank you so much for your help.”
Christina Molina
After CIF provided assistance to her team
“I just wanted to thank you and everyone in the Collision Industry Foundation for helping me out with the loss of tools. I really appreciate it. I’m very thankful for everything. I hope you have a great rest of the year. Thanks again.”
Billy Flatt
After receiving a CIF check to help replace lost tools
“I just wanted to thank you and everyone in the Collision Industry Foundation for helping me out with the loss of tools. I really appreciate it. I’m very thankful for everything. I hope you have a great rest of the year. Thanks again.”
Billy Flatt
After receiving a CIF check to help replace lost tools
“My family and I are so thankful for the Collision Industry Foundation and all the individuals who help support such a foundation. Being in the collision industry for 20-plus years, I had no idea. I felt alone at times, but this foundation and its volunteer staff really made me feel like I matter. Thank you all.”
Gerardo ‘Toni’ Ayala
On the financial aid CIF provided to him and his family during a very difficult situation
“Your generosity is greatly appreciated.”
R. Sierck
Regarding CIF Disaster Relief Assistance
“I would like to thank the Collision Industry Foundation. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!”
L. Todd
After learning that CIF Disaster Relief Assistance would be provided
“I would like to thank the Collision Industry Foundation. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!”
K. Guerttman
Regarding a CIF Disaster Relief Assistance check
“Thank you so much. Best news I have heard all day. We are getting there day by day. I really appreciate what you have been able to give, as every bit helps.”
G. Johnson
After learning that CIF Disaster Relief Assistance would be provided
“We appreciate anything that you are able to do for me and our associates. The money will be used wisely by us all.”
B. Miller
Regarding CIF Disaster Relief Assistance
“Thank you very much for your help. Right now, any help is very appreciated and helps.”
A. Nielsen
Regarding CIF Disaster Relief Assistance
“I can’t thank CIF enough for your generosity. I know all of us are truly grateful, and it absolutely will help with some needed replacements.”
E. McDanel
After receiving CIF Disaster Relief Assistance
“Thank you so much! The silver lining in this mess is seeing the kindness of so many people and organizations. Thank you!”
L. Todd
After receiving a CIF Disaster Relief Assistance check
“Thank you so much for the update. We really do appreciate it so much, as it will help us catch up on everything since I have been out of work.”
A. Rizzo
Commenting on the CIF support provided in his case
“I can’t thank you enough for the help of the foundation. It certainly is a Christmas miracle, and I am very thankful.”
L. Casey
After receiving confirmation of CIF support
“That is fantastic. I really appreciate it. You don’t know how much this helps. I have put a lot of my life into the auto body repair profession, and it is really great that CIF is there to help people like myself in this time of loss. Keep up the great work, and I will definitely spread the word around. Thank you so much from me and my family.”
M. Knetge
After receiving confirmation that a CIF Disaster Relief Assistance check would be mailed
“Thank you, everyone, so much. This is such a big help. My heart really feels the joy. Thank you again sincerely, and God bless.”
N. Saldana
After receiving confirmation that a CIF Disaster Relief Assistance check was on the way
“Good morning Petra, Paul and Collision Industry Foundation Family. I hope everyone is doing well. I want to sincerely thank you for all your help—it means so much to us as we navigate these challenging times. Your generosity and goodwill extend far beyond financial assistance; they provide the encouragement and strength we need to rebuild our home and our lives. Once again, thank you, Paul and everyone at the Collision Industry Foundation Family for your kindness and support. Your dedication to helping others is truly inspiring. Please keep up the amazing work and may you all be blessed.”
A. Daghlian
After CIF confirmed that a Disaster Relief Assistance check was on the way
Get Involved
Every act of support helps CIF make a difference for collision repair professionals facing unexpected hardship. Whether you donate, volunteer your time, participate in an event, or help spread awareness through social media to connect us with those in need, your involvement helps provide emergency relief when it’s needed most.
Learn MoreTier 1 Donors
First Responder – Donation $10K+
Our Donors
Donations to CIF directly support collision repair professionals and their families during some of life’s most difficult moments. Through emergency assistance and relief efforts, your generosity helps provide stability, hope and a path forward after unexpected hardship.
Learn More
Hear from Our Donors
Discover why donors across the industry choose to support CIF and help provide hope, relief and recovery for collision repair professionals facing unexpected hardship.
“We have tremendous respect for the work that the Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) is doing in support of collision repair professionals across the country, and we are proud to support the overall efforts of CIF.”
John Leavy CEO, NCS
Single Source
“At Tractable, our mission is to accelerate accident and disaster recovery across the world, with AI. But the world has been severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic. As a company, we feel we have the duty to do something to help those in need within our industry. Automotive repair professionals and their families are being affected, experiencing medical and financial difficulties.”
Alex Dalyac CEO and Co-Founder
Tractable
“During our most challenging times, the Collision Industry Foundation has been a constant source of leadership for our industry. We are proud to support CIF as it continues its work mobilizing the broader community and delivering relief to our industry.”
Joseph Allen General Manager and Senior Vice President
Automotive Services Group CCC
“It is my honor to support the Collision Repair Industry as it has given more than I could ever give it.”
Keith Going
“Wishing the foundation the most amazing year ever! I will give it thoughts as to how to best share awareness of the critical work all you rock stars do!”
Robert Grieve
Nylund’s Collision
“We are so happy to contribute to CIF and support the disaster relief fund. We are all in this business together and want nothing more than each shop to have an opportunity to succeed, particularly during this time.”
Jane Niemi North America Marketing Manager
BASF Automotive Refinish
“Of all Charities I can contribute to, I choose CIF because I can trust that all proceeds are all going to help someone in need. It always gives me great satisfaction giving back to an industry that has contributed so much to me and my family. One way I like to challenge others to contribute to my birthday fundraiser is by matching the first $500 personally. I have been able to raise several thousand dollars using this method.”
Dave Luehr Owner
Elite Bodyshop Solutions
“CIF was there for our business when we faced a natural disaster. We will forever be grateful for their kindness and generosity. We look ahead with gratitude and are honored to pay it forward by supporting CIF so other shops in our industry can be assisted in the future. Thank you to the Board for all of your support during this time.”
Anonymous $20 for 20 Donor
“Thanks for the smiles you’re able to bring to so many deserving folks!”
Scott Faber
“I can’t pay back all those that helped me on my journey in this industry, but I can help others in the future just as I was helped in the past”
Charles (Chuck) Sulkala
“At the 2023 Northeast Show, Petra Schroeder stopped by the booth to present Polyvance with a certificate thanking us for our support of the CIF – Collision Industry Foundation. The Collision Industry Foundation provides emergency relief by securing and distributing donations to collision repair professionals who have experienced significant losses due to natural disasters or other catastrophic events. Polyvance is proud to support such a great cause!”
Kurt Lammon President
Polyvance
“We are pleased to donate to a cause that supports our industry and its members in need after disaster hit.”
Mark Jurman President and CEO
Dedoes Industries LLC
“We are grateful for the opportunity to directly support and spread awareness of the good work by the Collision Industry Foundation – a unique element of the collision repair industry that shines a bright light on the generosity of the thousands of professionals working towards the common goal of safe and proper repairs.”
Tanya Sweetland General Manager
Advanced Repair Technologies Division of OEC
“So often someone hits a bump in the road and needs a little help. Collision Industry Foundation is a great resource for this and we are proud to be a donor.”
Tim Morgan CCO
Spanesi Americas
“CIF is an incredible organization within the collision repair community. Every year, individuals in need are provided opportunities to get the help they need to help them recover from often heartbreaking challenges in their lives. CIF provides a lifeline for people working inside collision repair facilities throughout the United States.”
Nick Mattera Co-Owner
Innovative Solutions and Technology
“Working with the CIF and Petra Schroeder team for several years now, it’s easy to understand the ongoing need that we have in our industry. We have witnessed our co-workers directly affected by often tragic events and losses, and CIF has come to help those in need. “CIF answers the call,” and we are proud to support this organization for years to come.”
Karl Kirschenman Director of Business Operations
Innovative Solutions and Technology
“We are very excited to announce joining the CIF Annual Donor Program! It is important to us to be part of the solutions for our industry and help play a role in providing crucial resources when needed.”
Christopher Garibay
SANTINT USA
“CIF has a noble mission so Copart is happy to help with that mission!!”
Natalie Kaschalk Vice President of Insurance Services
Copart
“PPG is proud to support the Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) and its mission to provide relief and assistance to industry stakeholders affected by catastrophic events. Through our partnership with CIF, we are dedicated to helping those in the collision repair industry recover and rebuild during challenging times. By combining our resources and expertise, we aim to make a positive impact and ensure that industry professionals receive the support they need when it matters most. Together, we stand committed to fostering resilience and solidarity within the collision repair community.”
Tom Wolf Director of Strategic Accounts
PPG
“We’re so happy to support CIF for another year! It’s awesome to be part of a community that steps up when people in our industry need it most.”
Dave Gruskos President
Reliable Automotive Equipment (RAE)
“Thank you for all of the selfless work your organization does. The help you give the families and individuals in need in our industry does not go unnoticed. Hopefully this will help you continue the important work you do!”
Amber Alley Manager
Barsotti’s Body & Fender
