ROP HomeSuccess Stories

AUTO SHOP RECEIVES GENEROUS GIFT

By Sara Suddes, The Gilroy Dispatch

Executives from Napa Auto Parts delivered more than $70,000 worth of tools, equipment and car lifts to Gilroy High School's auto shop Monday, to the delight of teacher Mark Drelicharz and students who were scraping by with a bare bones shop.

"Napa's generosity couldn't have come at a better time," Drelicharz said. "We're in a rebuilding year here at GHS. The generosity from Napa is going to go a long way with the program and it's survival."

The donation was sparked when a letter written by senior Cheyenne Strametz, 17, as part of a class project that made its way to the desk of Larry Samuelson, president and CEO of Napa Auto Parts.

Falling apart at the seams, the shop was in major need of an overhaul and Samuelson was blown away by the sincerity of the letter, requesting posters and anything Napa could spare to spruce up the shop, he said.

"What she's asking for was not so much for herself," he said. "The kids that come after her are going to be the ones to benefit."

As a result of Strametz's letter, representatives of Napa are working with Drelicharz to devise a three-year plan for outfitting the shop with thousands of dollars worth of tools and equipment. Drelicharz's wishlist included everything from lifts and tire machines to wrenches and hammers.

Though Samuelson couldn't make the donation in person, Napa representatives enjoyed lunch at GHS Monday afternoon.

"What began as a student class assignment turned into a project that transformed the Automotive ROP course," said Todd Farr, coordinator of special projects with the Santa Clara County Regional Occupational Program South. "Student motivation, inspiration and heartfelt passion fill the Gilroy auto shop."

"This is all because of Cheyenne Strametz and the power of the pen for writing a heartfelt letter that reached the right person," said Doug Carlson, general manager of Napa Fresno.

Carlson was so impressed with Strametz's humility that he gave her two NASCAR Sears Point VIP tickets, Farr said.

Santa Clara County Regional Occupational Program (ROP)  
700 W. 6th Street, Suite L, Gilroy, CA 95020 - Phone (408) 842-0361 / Fax (408) 842-0653  

Email: david_matuszak@sccoe.org