After much deliberation the WashUSA committee has decided not to run a national campaign in 2007. The decision was predicated on the dwindling participation in the annual event, which since 2002 has benefited The Make-A-Wish Foundation(r) of America, according to Mark Curtis, event founder.
Despite disappointing participation numbers the last few years, the committee is extremely proud of what WashUSA has accomplished since its inception in 2001. "We have been able to raise more than $800,000 and grant 100 wishes," said Curtis. "We have also been able to unite carwashers across the country and educate them on the importance of cause marketing."
Curtis, however, hasn't given up the fight completely. He plans to hold the event at his Connecticut washes in 2007 and encourages other operators to do the same. "I will be washing cars for Make-A-Wish and welcome others do so as well. We have had such great support from our local chapter that it has been a pleasure working with them on behalf of these deserving kids," he said.
Curtis also encourages interested operators to call him at 888/WASHUSA if they need help holding their own fundraisers in 2007.
A special thanks go out to the industry suppliers who have aided the effort over the years including:
Platinum Sponsor Jim Coleman Co/Hanna
Founding Sponsors Dultmeier Sales, ICS and Simoniz USA
Video Sponsor Bclip Productions
Gold Sponsors Lustra and Unitec Electronics
Silver Sponsor Ecolab Vehicle Care
Trade Media Sponsors Professional Carwashing & Detailing, Modern Car Care and the Northeast Carwasher
Star Sponsors Chartered Enterprises LLC; ERC Wiping Products; OBH (Only By Hand) and Ryko Mfg.
For information on The Make-A-Wish Foundation(r) contact 800/722-WISH.
