Car Wash Owner Donates Use of Washing Van to Charity

July 29, 2002--An idea that began with a road trip for a couple of high school graduates in the 1980's has turned out to be an innovative way for local organizations to raise money: the Brighton Car Wash mobile Charity Car Wash Van.

Jeff Bergeron, originator of the van and owner of two car wash businesses in Naperville, said the idea stemmed from a desire to travel, youthful enthusiasm and lack of cash. Bergeron said he and a friend decided to travel across the country after their graduation form Naperville Central High School. The funded their entire trip b;y operating a mobile car wash.

 

"We loaded up an van with a vacuum, sprayer, generator, soap and a 55 - gallon water tank," Bergeron said. "We washed limos at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas and RVs in campgrounds throughout the Southwest. We washed cars in Driveway and basically anything the at move. We have now adapted this idea for local organizations and charities as an easy and fun way to raise money."

The mobile charity car wash van allows schools, churches and other organizations to hold fund-raisers by hosting a car wash, with all the supplies provided by Bergeron.

After the date is scheduled, Bergeron's van -- decorated with plenty of drawing of soap bubbles -- is driven to the location of the organization's choosing. The group collects and keeps the money earned during the day, and Bergerson receives no reimbursement or payment

"My parents always taught me that it was important to give back to the community,"said Bergeron.

Bergeron's charity van was used for the first time in early June at a fund-raiser sponsored by Jefferson Junior High School in Naperville.

Jefferson teaches Kent Richardson and Suzanne Pankow coordinated the event. Richardson said 22 seventh - and eighth-graders washed 65 cars and raise $560 for Families Helping Families, a Naperville-based organization that provides assistance for single mothers who are homelessness.

 

"The charity van was wonderful," Richardson said. "Jeff provided us this everything --mitts, towels, sponges and soaps. He even gave us diagrams that showed the kids where to stand so they could provide a more efficient wash."