MT. LAUREL, NJ – Automotive Resources International (ARI) recently invited employees, their families, and the community out for an evening of hot wheels, cool refreshments, and entertainment as part of its 3rd Annual Custom Car and Truck Show.

Cars, trucks, and motorcycles of all varieties competed for first, second, and third place in a variety of judging classes. The undisputed highlight of the show was a handcrafted go-kart topped with a bright yellow truck body entered by ARI employee John Kiraly and his son, Shawn. In the ARI tradition of celebrating both family and teamwork, the father and son team was presented with an impressive trophy for Outstanding Workmanship.

ARI also used the show as a venue to raise money for charity. Employees personally donated items for a silent auction, with all proceeds going directly to the United Way. ARI’s parent company, Holman Enterprises, is the largest employee-based contributor to the United Way of Camden County.

“We are very pleased with this year’s turnout,” said Mike Shaffer, chair of the Car and Truck Show Committee. “This show is organized and hosted by ARI employees themselves. Whether it’s on the clock or after hours, our employees live and breathe cars and trucks. We’ve already started planning for next year’s affair!”

First organized in 2005 as a small employee appreciation event hosted at ARI’s Technical Call Center, the car show quickly grew into an exciting experience for the entire community. This year’s show achieved record participation, with 75 vehicles registered for judging and over 400 attendees.

The event offered activities for all ages and personalities. Children enjoyed the moon bounce and balloon animals while adults watched cars run on the mobile chassis dynamometer. Popular radio show personalities from a local rock music station hosted a live broadcast from the show. Automotive vendors provided free t-shirts and giveaways to attendees and answered questions about their products and services. A local fire department even brought out some of their trucks and equipment and placed them on exhibit.

The enthusiasm surrounding the event showcased ARI’s corporate culture and collaborative attitude encouraged by ARI’s “Partners in Excellence” quality assurance and employee reward program. Some attendees even expressed interest in joining the ARI team. The company’s Human Resources department collected numerous applications for Technical Call Center positions during the festivities.