The Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA), a community of the Auto Care Association, has secured the lead supporter designation for the University of the Aftermarket Foundation’s (UAF) 40th Anniversary campaign following a $50,040 donation. 

The milestone fundraising effort will culminate in a formal industry celebration on October 31, 2026, in Las Vegas.

Established in 1986 as the AWDA University Foundation, the organization funds educational scholarships and professional development grants designed to strengthen the automotive aftermarket sector and foster incoming industry talent across North America.

“AWDA is built on decades of service to the industry, and one of the most important parts of that service is securing its longevity by promoting continuing education for existing professionals in the industry, and those looking to enter the industry,” stated Fletcher Lord III, chairman of AWDA. UAF Chairman Roger McCollum expressed gratitude for the multi-year alignment, noting that the ongoing financial backing from warehouse distributors remains instrumental in scaling the foundation’s academic and grant-funding capabilities.