Since 2008, the APRO Charitable Foundation has annually provided scholarships to rent-to-own (RTO) professionals and their families. APRO members have contributed generously to the APRO Scholarship Fund – awarding 611 scholarships totaling more than $1.3 million to date – empowering students connected with RTO to pursue college degrees, technical credentials, and successful futures.
Caley Snyder of Dunnellon, Florida, is among the youngest candidates to receive an APRO scholarship. Caley is actually still completing high school in Dunnellon, while also taking college courses; she will be a student at the College of Central Florida next spring, graduating high school with half of her Associate in Arts degree already earned.
Caley has actively sought opportunities that challenge her to grow as both a student and a person, including membership in the National Honors Society and HOSA-Future Health Professionals (formerly Health Occupations Students of America).
“My involvement in HOSA has strengthened my passion for a career in the medical field,” Caley says. “What began as an exploration of potential career paths has turned into a valuable way to develop my skills in collaboration, problem-solving, adaptability. These experiences have reinforced my goal of becoming a radiologist specializing in ultrasound. I hope to provide not only accurate diagnoses, but also reassurance and comfort to patients during uncertain times.”
Lessons Learned through RTO
Caley’s dad, Kyle Parman, is President of Corporate Stores for RNR Tire Express in Tampa, Florida. Parman has been with RNR for 25 of his 28 years in rent-to-own, so Caley has grown up in the RTO industry.
“RTO provides an essential financial bridge for people during challenging times,” attests Caley. “Through the experiences of customers like Tessa S., a dedicated teacher and single mom, I’ve learned how rent-to-own can serve as both a practical solution and lesson in financial awareness.”
“When Tessa’s car required new tires, it wasn’t an optional purchase,” Caley continues. “It was a necessity for her family’s safety and her commute to work. Paying the full cost upfront wasn’t financially feasible, so she got the tires she needed immediately through RTO, spreading the cost over time into manageable payments.”
“While the payment plan makes the purchase possible, it can come with higher overall costs,” said Caley. “So while RTO’s accessibility and convenience can be critical for people living paycheck to paycheck, for me, it also emphasizes the importance of budgeting, planning for emergencies, and fully understanding the terms of any financial agreement.”
Teachings Beyond the Classroom
In addition to academics and her organizational memberships, Caley volunteers for quarterly blood drives at her school, with the local animal shelter, and at Lake Tropicana Civic Association events. She also works part-time as a Classroom Assistant at a dance studio – all experiences that have contributed to Caley becoming a leader who values service, responsibility, and compassion.
“Especially through community outreach events, I’ve seen how small acts of kindness can make deep and meaningful impacts,” concludes Caley. “My parents have also continually shown me the importance of creating an inclusive and uplifting environment where individuals feel supported, regardless of their circumstances.”
Caley’s is one of the dozens of positive stories that generous donations from the RTO community make happen each year. Click here to learn more and contribute to this invaluable industry effort.
About RNR Tire Express
Founded in 2000 in Tampa, Florida, RNR Tire Express is a national rent-to-own tire-and-wheel dealer and franchise system offering tires, custom wheels, and related automotive services through flexible rental-purchase options. The company has grown to more than 200 locations across 31 states. RNR Tire Express has been an APRO member since 2001.
