Veterans Charity Gets Free KIA for Service Dog Teams

A veterans charity in South Carolina just got the keys to a vehicle that will help them deliver life-changing service dogs to former military members who need them most.

Pawsitive for Heroes received a fully refurbished 2021 KIA Sorento LX through a creative partnership between GEICO, collision repair company Crash Champions, and the NABC Recycled Rides program. The presentation happened at American Legion Post 71 in North Augusta, a gathering place for veterans since 1932.

The donation solves a real problem. Since 2013, Pawsitive for Heroes has been connecting medically referred veterans with trained service dogs through VA Hospital partnerships. Getting those dogs to veterans requires reliable transportation, and this vehicle fills that gap perfectly.

"This vehicle will make an immediate impact," said Chris Kreiger Sr., the organization's president and Iraq War veteran. He explained it will help their team connect with veterans, support service dog teams, and ensure those who served get the assistance they deserve.

The Recycled Rides program gives totaled or damaged vehicles a second life. Insurance companies donate cars that might otherwise be scrapped. Repair shops volunteer their labor and expertise to restore them. Then they go to nonprofits and families who need transportation but can't afford it.

The Ripple Effect

This single vehicle donation creates multiple waves of good. The KIA will help Pawsitive for Heroes reach more veterans across South Carolina, expanding their ability to place service dogs with those suffering from PTSD, mobility issues, and other service-related conditions.

Each service dog takes months to train and costs thousands of dollars. By providing these dogs free to medically referred veterans, the organization removes financial barriers to healing. Now, with reliable transportation, they can evaluate more candidates, deliver more dogs, and follow up with teams to ensure successful partnerships.

The collision repair industry often works behind the scenes, but programs like Recycled Rides show how technical skills can serve deeper community needs. Crash Champions donated the repair work, while partners including Advanced Remarketing Services, Cars for Charity, Copart, and Enterprise contributed parts and logistics.

For veterans who gave years of service, coming home often means navigating new challenges. Service dogs offer independence, emotional support, and companionship. This refurbished KIA ensures those connections keep happening.