The International Automotive Remarketers Alliance (IARA) presented its 2013 IARA Special Recognition award to Mike Pitcher, president and CEO of LeasePlan USA, for his contributions in giving back. 

The award was presented to Pitcher at the 2013 Summer Roundtable by Dave Alfonso, remarketing manager for KIA and Industry Recognition and Awards committee member for the IARA. 

"The IARA is so pleased to have the opportunity to present Mike Pitcher with our 2013 Special Recognition Award," said Stephen Houston, executive director of the IARA. "Mike's dedication and quiet leadership in support of the Atlanta Children's Shelter is truly worthy of recognition.  Mike offered some touching words about the Atlanta Children's Shelter and how LeasePlan came to support the shelter. His story brought tears to my eyes; I am sure I am not alone on that. Mike and LeasePlan joins the short list of individuals who quietly support our communities and do so much without seeking recognition. We are proud to honor Mike Pitcher."

Pitcher was presented the award for his leadership and support of a LeasePlan USA outreach program called LeasePlan Cares. The program is comprised of LeasePlan employees and generates funds to support numerous charities, the major one being the Atlanta Children's Shelter. Pitcher is a driving force behind LeasePlan Cares, according to the IARA, and has played a major role in the many success stories at the Atlanta Children's Shelter, as well as the other charities the program supports. 

“In researching Mike Pitcher's background prior to presenting him with the IARA Special Achievement Award, a significant quality about Mike became clearly evident," Alfonso commented. The basis for his passionate support of the Atlanta Children's Shelter and the valuable work it does, is that he truly, deeply, and personally cares about those who find themselves in the unfortunate position in life to require its services.”

According to Pitcher, “It is an honor to receive the 2013 IARA Special Recognition Award for the support and leadership of our outreach program, LeasePlan Cares. It is easy to lead and support an outreach program like LeasePlan Cares when you are a part of a company that cares about making a difference in the community. Our work with the Atlanta Children Shelter and other charities has been extremely rewarding. I sincerely believe that we get more than we give. I am truly proud of everyone at LeasePlan for our efforts in philanthropy.”

ABOUT THE IARA

It is the mission of the IARA to assist, educate, and share knowledge with one another and our industry partners, so that each member may be empowered to achieve the fullest efficiency and most continued improvement attainable in the commerce of selling vehicles through the marketplace. For more information, visit www.iaraonline.org.