The Future of America’s Automotive Heritage
“It’s important that vintage and modern collectible vehicles continue to be restored, driven and enjoyed,” says David Madeira, CEO of the new not-for-profit America’s Automotive Trust. The work of AAT, which was announced this summer, will be to ensure that “our nation’s automotive legacy is celebrated” and that the skills and knowledge necessary to sup-port the future of the collector community are transferred to the next generation.According to Madeira, AAT has four founding institutions: Le-May – America’s Car Museum, the RPM Foundation, Club Auto and Concours Club. He emphasizes that collaboration in strategic planning and programs reduces redundancies and facilitates the first concerted efforts to secure America’s automotive heritage. He adds that organizations interested in preserving America’s automotive legacy are welcome to join and benefit from AAT’s capabilities.Each of the founding organizations has a distinct role within AAT as part of the Trust’s larger heritage effort, as outlined by Madeira:
- LeMay – America’s Car Museum: ACM is the repository for automotive treasures and a gathering place for enthusiasts, with educational programs for all ages, rotating exhibits and events.
- RPM Foundation: Formerly known as the Hagerty Education Program at ACM, the foundation helps accelerate the growth of the next generation of automotive restoration and preservation craftsmen through formal training and mentorship.
- Club Auto: Promoting America’s automotive legacy to a broader audience, Club Auto produces driving days, race events, track days and other activities for enthusiasts of collectible and modern vehicles.
- Concours Club: Members of this high-level philanthropic organization are the ambassadors and advisers to the Trust, and are essential to ensuring a vibrant future for auto enthusiasts
“By creating an alliance of like-minded organizations, our vi-sion for continuing America’s rich automotive pastime can have a greater impact on the millions of collector car enthusi-asts around the globe,” concludes Madeira. “A coalition … is vital to securing America’s automotive heritage and building an endowment to support those that share in that vision.”
LEAH GROUT
For additional information:
americasautomotivetrust.org