Bridgestone Retail Operations donates $55,000 to Wounded Warrior Project
Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Retail Operations (BSRO), a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas, announced a donation of $55,000 to Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP), concluding a month-long nationwide campaign at the company’s 2,200 stores where BSRO made a financial gift for every set of Firestone tires sold.
“Providing our nation’s veterans with the resources they need for reintegration into civilian life is a longstanding commitment for our business,” said Marko Ibrahim, president, Bridgestone Retail Operations. “It is a privilege to support the important work of Wounded Warrior Project as they continue to change and save the lives of injured veterans and their families each and every day.”
As part of the campaign, BSRO and WWP hosted an injured veteran and their guest at the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 in Indianapolis, Indiana, during Memorial Day weekend. They received a VIP experience with behind-the-scenes access to one of racing’s biggest stage and attended a special ceremonial dinner before the race.
“The support we receive from Bridgestone Retail Operations helps Wounded Warrior Project honor and empower warriors in their communities,” said Brea Kratzert Todd, WWP, vice president of business development. “Thanks to the generosity of the Bridgestone team and their customers, warriors and their families never pay a penny for our programs and services.”
Since 2003, WWP has improved the lives of more than one million wounded warriors and their families through comprehensive programs, advocacy, and services that assist veterans in their transition from active duty to civilian life.
BSRO’s fundraising initiative with WWP is the latest example of the company’s commitment to the military. In 2023, BSRO launched a Military Fellowship partnership with Army Career Skills and the Department of Defense Skillbridge Program, which provides service members with automotive technician training and career opportunities for service members seeking real-world job experience. Additionally, BSRO celebrated 30 years of operating tire and automotive service centers at military bases nationwide in partnership with the Army & Air Force Exchange Services last year. Since 2022, BSRO’s BRAVO Employee Resource Group has been engaging veteran and non-veteran teammates from across the organization in the fellowship of service.
Working with WWP supports the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, which established eight values to solidify the company’s commitment to a more sustainable future. The campaign is an example of the company’s commitment to “Empowerment.”