Denver, CO –Teaching the Autism Community Trades has received a historic donation from NAPA Auto Parts—a full 18-wheeler packed with brand-new tools valued at $350,000. This represents the largest tool donation in TACT’s history and a significant boost to its mission of providing skilled trades training for individuals on the autism spectrum.
The donation came together in under 24 hours, thanks to swift coordination between Ian Gnadt, District Sales Manager at NAPA Auto Parts, and Tom Pacheco, Technical Director, ZEV TECH Consulting and longtime TACT supporter. Recognizing the immediate impact it could have, Pacheco quickly recommended TACT as the ideal recipient.
The delivery included thousands of high-quality tools that will be used in TACT’s hands-on training programs, empowering neurodiverse young adults with real-world job skills in automotive, carpentry, welding, and more.
“This extraordinary donation will immediately expand access and create lasting opportunities for neurodivergent individuals to succeed,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of The Fedcap Group. “NAPA Auto Parts is ensuring that every TACT student trains with the same equipment used in the field, exemplifying what is possible when industry leaders invest in real opportunity for all.”
“Out of all the trade schools this donation could have gone to, we are in awe and so very honored have been selected!” said Becky Mershon, TACT Interim President and VP Programs and Operations. “This generous gift
demonstrates a wonderful belief in our mission and in those we serve.”
“When you start an organization that is a reflection of yourself, you feel proud seeing it succeed,” said Danny Combs, Founder of TACT and Inaugural Director of the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office. “When you step aside and watch leaders rise and not only carry the dream but elevate it further, it leaves you knowing you helped start something that’s more of a legacy.”
About The Fedcap Group
For nearly ninety years, The Fedcap Group has developed scalable, innovative, and potentially disruptive solutions to some of society’s most pressing needs. The Fedcap Group drives economic mobility through four practice areas—education, workforce development, health, and economic development. The Fedcap Group also invests its time and resources in broader system change—working in partnership with federal, state, and local government to improve the way services are designed, funded, and delivered. For more information visit www.fedcapgroup.org.
About TACT
TACT (Teaching the Autism Community Trades) is a Denver-based nonprofit organization founded to encourage and empower the full spectrum of individuals with autism through skilled trades education and employment. Addressing the needs of the ASD community which experiences a 90% unemployment rate, TACT offers a strengths-based program developed specifically to provide training and create meaningful employment opportunities that are personally fulfilling to each individual student. For the autism community, TACT creates a
future full of purpose and promise. For more information about TACT and its programs, please visit https://www.buildwithtact.org/
Contact:
Jim Malatras
212-727-4200
JMalatras@fedcap.org