In 1995, the National Auto Body Council (NABC) was formed to improve the image of the collision industry. For 11 years, the PRIDE Awards have exemplified NABC's goal by honoring over 45 extraordinary groups or individuals who selflessly gave of themselves to improve the world. 

NABC Executive Director Chuck Sulkala reminds that "the PRIDE Awards have become the crowning event which recognizes the charitable and humanitarian efforts of those within the collision industry and their continued effort to give of themselves to others. This is the industry that the consumer doesn't know and understand, these are the heroes that represent the best of who we are and what we do."

Nomination forms for 2006 are being distributed to members of the National Auto Body Council and all industry segments. Any individual, business organization, or group employed in a Collision Industry segment such as collision repair facility, vehicle manufacturer, supplier/ vendor, educator, insurer, independent appraiser or trade association is eligible to be nominated. Nominations may be made online at the NABC website www.autobodycouncil.org.

There is also a downloadable version of the form that can be printed out and faxed in to the office. "If you know of a worthy candidate, and you can't get to us online, please call," asks Pride Committee Chair Janet Chaney. "We don't want to miss anybody." Nominations can also be made by contacting Chaney at 480.720.2565, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , or phoning the NABC office at 1.888.667.7433.

The deadline for receiving nominations will be September 15, 2006. PRIDE Award winners will be recognized at the Collision Industry Night of Achievement held in Las Vegas, Nevada, during Automotive Week in November 2006.

"I want to thank all of you that have taken the time to recognize and support your colleagues in past years by sending in nominations," Chaney continued. "The judging committee reviewed 38 nominations last year - each one worthy of note. The industry should be very proud of this effort and the amazing people we have met through this initiative.

"This is going to be an exciting year for the PRIDE Awards. The National Auto Body Council is writing a rich history of the uncommon valor shown by individuals from this industry."