PPG Salutes Paralyzed Veterans of America at SEMA Show

Amid the action of the recent SEMA show at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the PPG booth, with its “Salute to Color” theme, was vibrant with custom-car world celebrities, award-winning cars and some very special guests: members of Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Hosting veterans from Paralyzed Veterans of America was PPG’s way of thanking the men and women of the armed forces who have sacrificed so much for the nation. Based in Washington, D.C., the nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing disabled veterans—from as far back as World War II—and their families with everything they need to live full and productive lives. With paralyzed veterans composing the group’s board of directors, the organization well understands the many challenges and obstacles its members face.

“We learned about Paralyzed Veterans of America through our relationship with Team Penske,” said Cristina Fronzaglia-Murray, PPG manager, marketing communications, automotive refinish. “We wanted to recognize and celebrate the freedom and choices we have in this country—from the ability to pick the cars we drive to the color and paint we choose for them—and the role our armed forces play in keeping us safe and free to make those choices. Paralyzed Veterans’ members have paid a high price to keep us secure. It’s PPG’s privilege to have them with us at SEMA.”

Booth visitors waiting to meet elite painters had a chance to write thank-you notes to Paralyzed Veterans of America members in appreciation of their service to the nation. Monetary donations were also welcome and more than $3,100 was raised for the organization. PPG contributed to the cause with two pieces of original art—renditions of stylized “Salute to Color” postage stamps created by PPG painters Jeff Matauch and Frank Ramos—that Paralyzed Veterans of America can auction to raise funds.

Paralyzed Veterans also had the opportunity to make the public aware of the many services it provides through its 34 chapters across the country. Special attention was given to the group’s “Wheels Helping Warriors” fundraising vehicle donation program, which provides the organization with significant financial support.

“We cannot adequately express our gratitude to PPG for its support of our organization and members,” said Bill Lawson, Paralyzed Veterans’ immediate past president, who attended SEMA. “Including us in their booth—giving us a chance to make