Collision repair group raises more than $6 million for CF research, advocacy
Parent company of Carstar began its fundraising efforts in the 1990s
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The Driven Brands Collision Group announced it has raised more than $6 million to support care, advocacy, and research related to cystic fibrosis (CF).
“This milestone represents the heart of our organization,” Damien Reyna, chief operating officer, collision, for Driven Brands, said in a company press release. “Our franchise partners, teams, and customers continue to show extraordinary compassion and commitment. Together, we’re not just repairing cars, we’re helping advance the mission to improve and extend the lives of those living with cystic fibrosis.”
Driven Brands is the parent company of collision repair brands including Abra, Carstar, and Fix Auto USA. It started raising funds for CF in the late 1990s when a franchise partner’s granddaughter was diagnosed with the genetic disease. Driven Brands’ franchises have participated in fundraising activities ranging from car washes, golf tournaments, and car shows to charity walks, barbecues, and collecting donations in stores. This year, some of the brand’s locations launched an initiative where they donate every time they get a positive online review.
“Reaching $6 million isn’t the end of our journey, it’s motivation to go even further,” Reyna said. “We’re honored to stand with our CF partners and look forward to continuing our mission to make a difference.”
Modern therapies have helped increase life expectancy in CF
CF is a genetic disorder that leads to the production of thick, sticky mucus that builds up in the lungs and other organs, driving most disease symptoms. For most of human history, people with CF generally did not survive beyond childhood. However, modern therapies have dramatically altered outcomes, and the median life expectancy for people born with CF between 2020 and 2024 is upwards of 60.
Driven Brands’ fundraising efforts have helped support leading CF advocacy organizations, including the U.S.-based Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Cystic Fibrosis Canada.
“The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is deeply grateful for the support of the Driven Brands Collision Group — Abra, CARSTAR, and Fix Auto USA,” said Patrick Feeley, chief development officer at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “Their generosity, alongside the CF community, helps build on our work that has added decades of life for people with CF. We are focused on supporting people with CF no matter where they are on their journey and on pursuing a cure for all people with the disease.”
Cystic Fibrosis Canada singled out Carstar’s support.
“CARSTAR’s unwavering commitment continues to make a profound difference for Canadians living with cystic fibrosis,” Kate White, director of philanthropy and partnerships at Cystic Fibrosis Canada, said in a separate press release from Carstar. “Their long-standing support fuels innovative research, enhances access to world-class care, and drives advocacy that brings us closer to a future without CF.”
