Chili Cook-Off Raises $62,000 for Adults with Disabilities

St. Cloud, Minn. — June 5, 2014 — During the final stop of the 84th Annual Auto Value Product Expo Tour, Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. (APH), in partnership with almost 50 manufacturers’ representatives, hosted its fourth annual chili cook-off. Eight chili dishes were entered and $62,000 was raised for WACOSA, a nonprofit day program for adults with disabilities in central Minnesota.

“APH, Auto Value and the Bartlett family are strong believers and supporters of WACOSA,” commented Russ Redman, sales representative for William Shimp Sales and chili cook-off champion. “Adults with disabilities are often the hardest hit when county, state and federal funding cuts need to be made. For that reason, we are extremely proud to help the APH team, in any way we can, raise money and awareness for this important program.”

WACOSA connects local businesses with a workforce of more than 500 adults with mental or physical disabilities. Through training and coaching, WACOSA workers provide reliable and affordable business solutions through in-center work opportunities or community employment.

(Front row, from left: John Bartlett, APH; John Oster, Tall Sales; Jim Kruger, N.A. Williams; Crystal Nutt, WACOSA; Mark Hoffman, East Penn; Steve Anderson, Dayco; and Corey Bartlett, APH. Back row: Jared Lamont, North Central Truck Accessories; Pat Ryan, North Pro Reps; Steve Howard, WACOSA; Jay Knopick, Actions Sales; and Dave Berge, Dayco.)

(Russ Redman, William Shimp Sales)