America’s Automotive Trust (AAT), a not-for-profit corporation, has been created by David Madeira (above) as a way to secure America’s automotive heritage for generations to come.
“It’s important that vintage and modern collectible vehicles continue to be restored, driven and enjoyed,” said AAT CEO Madeira. “America’s Automotive Trust is committed to ensuring that our nation’s automotive legacy is celebrated, and that the skills and knowledge necessary to support the future of the collector community are transferred to the next generation.”
Madeira said the Trust has four founding institutions: LeMay — America’s Car Museum, the RPM Foundation, Club Auto and Concours Club. Organizations interested in joining the movement to preserve America’s automotive legacy are welcome to join and expand AAT’s capabilities.
“Participating institutions can benefit from the Trust’s expertise in education, fundraising, management, marketing, events and more. This reduces financial and staffing needs as they achieve cost-efficiencies by sharing marketing, development, finance, accounting and other administrative services,” explained Madeira. “Most importantly, collaboration in strategic planning and programs reduces redundancy of effort and facilitates the first concerted attempt to secure America’s automotive heritage.”
Each of the founding organizations plays a role within the Trust as part of its larger heritage effort. LeMay serves as AAT’s repository for automotive treasures and a gathering place for enthusiasts, with educational programs for all ages, rotating exhibits and events. RPM provides services, resource sharing, grant giving and mentorship to accelerate the growth of the next generation of automotive restoration and preservation craftsmen with rewarding careers in the collector car industry. Club Auto, through its partnership with Hagerty, promotes AAT’s vision to reach a broader audience by providing the enthusiast community with activities such as driving days, race events and track days for their collectible and modern vehicles. The Concours Club heads high-level philanthropic efforts to obtain funding for AAT and its entities.
“By creating an alliance of like-minded organizations, our vision for continuing America’s rich automotive pastime can have a greater impact upon the millions of collector car enthusiasts around the globe,” concluded Madeira. “A coalition to support the success of these institutions is vital to securing America’s automotive heritage and building an endowment to support those which share in that vision.”
For more information please visit http://americasautomotivetrust.org.
