ADESA Phoenix recently hosted a charity auction that raised more than $60,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The event was held in conjunction with the auction’s fourth annual Legendary Sales Week.

This special auction included two classic vehicles: a 1974 Ford Ranchero Squire and a 1969 Chevy Camaro SS. 

“We are honored to have this opportunity to contribute to such an amazing organization—JDRF touches the lives of so many impacted by diabetes,” said Mike Russo, general manager of ADESA Phoenix. “Thank you to our employees and our customers for helping us support this worthy cause.”

Daniel Minor of Dans of Big Lake had the winning bid on the Ford Ranchero Squire. And George Lawrence with Consumer Auto Liquidators took home the classic Chevy Camaro SS.

The auction also featured a special guest—eight-year-old juvenile diabetes advocate, Grace Gurley. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at eight-months old, Grace now speaks publically about life with the disease in hopes of raising awareness. Gurley asked dealers to “bid high” and was excited to bang the gavel and yell, “Sold!” to the highest bidders. Grace’s sister Annabelle supported her on the block.

“At General Motors, we understand that juvenile diabetes is a disease that touches the very fabric of our society," said Dan Kennedy, manager, GM Remarketing. “Almost everyone knows a person who is directly affected by this disease. We were happy to participate in the auction, which proceeds will be used to help raise awareness and find a cure for juvenile diabetes.”

“Mike Russo and his team from ADESA Phoenix rolled out the red carpet and had an outstanding promotion tied to the Barrett-Jackson festivities in Phoenix. I am so proud of everyone from ADESA for raising $60,000 for JDRF,” said Linda Silverstein, manager, remarketing and rental operations at Ford Motor Company. “They brought dealers from all over the country for a week of sales. Everyone had fun, explored all of the activities and I was happy to be part of the event. Hats off to the entire team for a job well done. I can’t wait until next year.”

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