Soapy Joe’s Car Wash is celebrating educators in this unusual year of modified learning by offering free washes for all educators through May 4, Teacher Appreciation Day as well as making a $10,000 donation to San Diego Center for Children Academy, which provides therapeutic and educational services to children and families struggling with mental, emotional and behavioral disorders.
The locally-owned business timed their donation to coincide with April 15, a day San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria proclaimed Soapy Joe’s Day, awarded based on the company’s eco-friendly and community focused practices.
Soapy Joe’s Vice President of Marketing Anne Mauler said their company chose to make the donation to the center because of their long-term commitment to San Diego county children. Founded in 1887, San Diego Center for Children is the oldest children’s nonprofit in San Diego and their San Diego Center for Children Academy provides education to around 75 students from 30 school districts in the area at eight different program sites.
Soapy Joe’s Chief Executive Officer Lorens Attisha said the past year has been tough for everyone but has especially impacted youth and their families, and teachers in the community.
“On Soapy Joe’s Day, we want to help support our kids and educators in San Diego, which is why we’ve chosen to give back to the San Diego Center for Children. The organization does amazing work for San Diego families and we are proud to partner with them. We also wanted to honor educators within the community for their commitment to our children this past year.”
The center’s principal and Director of Education, James McElroy said they couldn’t be happier that Soapy Joe’s is choosing to recognize educators this year in their community outreach.
“We will be able to use these donations to help purchase outdoor picnic tables for our students and staff to enjoy their meals together and also hope to use some funds to continue to upgrade our student’s laptops for a greater variety of digital instruction. We are very thankful for an organization like Soapy Joe’s giving back to our community.”
Through May 4th, teachers, from preschool to college, can visit any Soapy Joe’s location, display employee identification and enjoy a complimentary Magic Joe car wash.
