CLEVELAND, Ohio — National Automotive Experts (NAE/NWAN) is humbled to announce that they have been honored as one of the recipients of the Pillar Award. The Medical Mutual Pillar Award for Community Service, presented by Smart Business, honors businesses of all types and sizes that make outstanding contributions to their communities. Its purpose is to encourage a charitable environment, recognize creative efforts that make a difference, and demonstrate the ties between the for-profit and nonprofit worlds.

“We are so honored to have been recognized by Smart Business with this award,” said Kelly Price, CEO of NAE/NWAN. “I believe the company’s passion for community service transcends into everything we do and that is evident in our company culture. We are very fortunate to have associates and partners that give without holding back. I have so much gratitude towards my team for their enthusiasm and dedication in giving back, especially in their support of the Cleveland Christian Home.”

Price set the mark high for her and her team. Her goal was to raise $1 million for the Cleveland Christian Home (CCH). NAE/NWAN has reached this goal and they are still going. The money and time they have devoted have helped to buy school uniforms, build a new roof, and provide over 40 children with Christmas gifts. Although the CCH is the company’s main focus, NAE/NWAN also donates to the Martin Hennessey Inspiring Children Foundation, Megan Littlejohn Foundation, Safe Nest, and Susan G. Komen, Price said.

NAE/NWAN was presented with their award on Dec. 6 at a 20th annual gala hosted by Smart Business at the La Centre Conference and Banquet Facility in Westlake, Ohio.  

“We are so proud to be headquartered in Northeast Ohio. Cleveland is home for us and that is why we are so passionate about giving back to this community,” said David Neuenschwander, Ppresident of NAE/NWAN. “Kelly has shown us that giving back is so much more than providing financial support. She has instilled in us the importance of giving time, heart, soul, and plenty of smiles. This mentality has truly transformed NAE into a culture of passionate associates who make sure that those who don’t have enough, get enough. We march to that beat every single day as one team.”

“NAE/NWAN is the type of organization and leadership team that truly understands the important symbiotic relationship between the for-profit and nonprofit worlds,” says Dustin S. Klein, publisher of Smart Business. “Their involvement in causes they care about underscores a real commitment to giving back. The impact is evident: NAE/NWAN is helping to strengthen the communities where we all live and work.”