Rent-to-own News - Pennsylvania dealers raise $12,500 for Special Olympics

Torch icons cover the front counter at Dan Fisher's Majic Rent To Own store.

The Pennsylvania Association of Rental Dealers (PARD) raised nearly $12,500 this January, for the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania 2009 Winter Games in Johnston.

PARD will present the check at the games where more than 300 athletes from across the state will compete in a variety of events from alpine and cross-country skiing to snowshoeing to figure and speed skating.

"When we decided to do this last October, we were informed that the winter games were coming up soon and were asked to execute quickly," said Sandi Frye, PARD president and Premier Rental Purchase franchisee. "Especially given the hard economic times, I thought every one of the stores did very well. I'm happy that we can make a difference in the lives of these athletes."

Frye also thanked Rent-a-Center, for a $10,000 contribution on behalf of the company's 110 stores in the state and the 24 participating independent stores from across the state that collected nearly $2,500 from customers who purchased special torch icons for a donation of $1 or more.

Dan Fisher, owner of Majic Rent To Own, took the lead in organizing the event, Frye said, and is responsible for a large part of its success.

"Thank you, Rent-A-Center, and all the members of the Association for your generous support to our athletes," said Matthew Aaron, president and CEO of Special Olympics Pennsylvania.

The association will present the contribution to Special Olympics officials during in a special ceremony during the winter games Feb. 22-24.

mevans@rtohq.org