On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Rydell and Grand Forks Subaru and Kia donated the gift of reliable transportation to five deserving individuals who have experienced interpersonal violence through the third annual Angels on Wheels program. A sixth vehicle will be donated directly to Community Violence Intervention Center (CVIC) in support of their rural advocacy efforts. This year’s event featured a strengthened partnership with Grand Forks Subaru Kia, marking a new chapter of collaboration.
Forged in partnership with CVIC, an organization dedicated to violence prevention and intervention, Angels on Wheels continues to empower CVIC clients who face transportation barriers. This program is essential for enabling recipients to achieve stability and independence in their daily lives.
“The donation of these vehicles truly changes lives,” said CVIC Vice President of Advocacy Sheila Morris. “Gaining access to reliable and independent transportation is transformative for survivors of domestic violence who are rebuilding their lives.” Morris added, “The additional vehicle donation to CVIC will allow our rural advocate to reach even more clients in rural communities, ensuring everyone has access to advocacy and safety services.”
A Continued Commitment to Giving Back
Rydell is proud to continue its partnership with CVIC for Angels on Wheels, a program that exemplifies its vision, “To be so effective that we are able to be helpful to others.” By providing reliable transportation to those in need, Rydell actively supports individuals in their journey toward rebuilding their lives after experiencing violence.
“Programs like Angels on Wheels remind us why giving back to the community is so vital. We’re honored to help create brighter futures for these individuals and their families,” says Rydell General Manager Ben Cahalan. “Through this initiative, we’re putting our vision into action and doing our part to make a lasting impact on our community.”
Brian Rydell adds, “It’s inspiring to see how much of a difference something as simple as reliable transportation can make in someone’s life. This program is a reflection of our commitment to being a positive force in Grand Forks, and we’re humbled to play a role in helping recipients take steps toward independence and stability.”
A New Partnership in Giving Back
This year, Grand Forks Subaru Kia joins Rydell in donating vehicles to Angels on Wheels. A total of five vehicles will be donated: three from Rydell and two from Grand Forks Subaru Kia. Founded in 2006, Grand Forks Subaru Kia shares a mission of serving the community and creating meaningful change.
Representatives from Grand Forks Subaru Kia emphasized their alignment with CVIC’s goals:
Matt Bredemeier: “The Angels on Wheels program is a tremendous fit for our dealership and Subaru Kia. We’re excited to be a part of this program and know how meaningful this is for the recipients.”
Michelle Bredemeier: “CVIC is an extremely important support mechanism for the greater Grand Forks community. Supporting Angels on Wheels brings us joy in giving back to those in need.”
Nate Krohne: “Giving back to the community is very important to us, and Angels on Wheels is the perfect way to make a meaningful impact.”
Program Highlights
This year’s program includes:
Five vehicles: Donated pre-owned vehicles matched to recipients based on their needs (three from Rydell and two from Grand Forks Subaru Kia).
Rydell and Subaru Kia gift cards: Provided with each vehicle for future oil changes or other service needs.
Community contributions: Northdale Oil will once again donate $200 gas cards for each recipient, and Safe Kids will supply car seats with on-site installation assistance to ensure safety. Darcy’s, River Cinema, Happy Joes, and L & M Meats have also agreed to donate gift cards to each Angels on Wheels recipient.
Rydell and Grand Forks Subaru Kia are proud to champion CVIC’s mission of creating a safer tomorrow and are committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals in the Grand Forks community.
For more information about the Angels on Wheels program or the December 18th event, please contact Morgan Hibma, Marketing Manager at Rydell, at 763-913-1036.
About CVIC
CVIC is dedicated to ending violence in two generations by delivering vital safety and healing services and educating communities on how to prevent violence and build healthy relationships. Through collaboration with partners like Rydell and Grand Forks Subaru Kia, CVIC is fostering hope and safety for those they serve.
Pictures and a video from the event are below
