Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
What started as a grassroots effort over a decade ago, the Westlake Ace Hardware and Salvation Army Fan Drive has turned into a multistate campaign. Taking place during the early summer months each year, the Fan Drive encourages customers at the 145 Westlake Ace locations around the country to round up their store purchases with the donated funds going to purchase new box fans for local Salvation Army commands.
Contributions to the Fan Drive are also welcome at Buikema’s Ace Hardware locations in Illinois and select Ace Hardware stores in California. All donations stay in the local community. Customers can also make donations online.
“Since its inception, the Fan Drive has made a tangible impact on lives across the country. The unbelievable generosity of our customers has helped us aid the most vulnerable among us by staying cool during the summer heat,” says Andy Schmitt, vice president and COO of Westlake Ace Hardware. “At Westlake Ace Hardware, service is at the heart of everything we do, and the Fan Drive is just one example of how we’re committed to serving the communities we call home.”
Last year, Westlake Ace customers raised $105,000 nationwide, which was used to purchased more than 6,100 fans for those in need. Since the campaign began at one store in Hutchinson, Kansas, it has raised $855,000 and provided more than 58,000 fans.
“As the summer heat approaches, the needs of the families we support only increases,” says commissioner Kenneth Hodder, National Commander of The Salvation Army. “Families should not have to endure uncomfortable temperatures on top of their existing struggles. The continued partnership and support from Westlake Ace Hardware and its generous customers enables us to provide essential relief to our neighbors in need.”
