Aubrey Edge, president and CEO of First Coast Energy, was recognized by the Northeast Florida Builders Association for raising $108,000 in his company’s Tribute to Heroes.
First Coast Energy Shell raised the money to honor and provide support to families whose loved ones have been killed or wounded in Iraq or Afghanistan.
First Coast Energy Shell, a Jacksonville-based company that owns Daily’s convenience stores and most area Shell stations, hosted various fundraising activities in support of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, a nationwide fund supported entirely by donations. Military families receive 100 percent of the public contributions - no administrative costs are deducted from public contributions.
“The military is such an important part of our community, and we believe this is a great opportunity to show our support and honor the military heroes who have sacrificed for our country,” Edge said.
NEFBA President Bryan Lendry presented the award.
“Our entire community benefits from efforts such as these,” Lendry said of the FCE initiative. “Families of those serving our country in Iraq and Afghanistan often feel isolated and alone. These efforts let them know they are not alone and help them begin to put their lives back together.”
FCE Shell conducted promotions throughout the summer to help raise money for the fund. First, the company sponsored gasoline price rollbacks to kick off the fundraiser. During one phase of the program, the company encouraged commuters to “fill up for heroes.” The company donated a portion of the proceeds from each gallon of gasoline purchased at the nearly 80 area Shell stations for one month. Also during that month, participating Shell stations accepted monetary donations and sold commemorative t-shirts, wristbands and bumper stickers with all proceeds donated to the fund.
On Flag Day, the company sponsored a care package drive for troops currently serving in the Middle East. The community responded by taking much-needed items, such as toiletries, to Shell stations throughout the area.
Now in its third year, FCE’s Tribute to Heroes had raised more than $100,000 prior to the beginning of the 2005 campaign. First Coast Energy invited its business partners and associates to take part in this year’s efforts, along with the community.
Edge, a native of Hawkinsville, Ga., started FCE in 1997 in partnership with Shell Oil Co. and three partners. First Coast Energy now operates 65 corporately owned stores, in addition to the 80 stores that are leased. The 150 service stations and convenience stores are located throughout Florida.
First Coast Energy also offers a fuel-purchase and recordkeeping plan to NEFBA members. The plan allows participating NEFBA members to purchase gasoline at a discount and offers program support to help companies keep track of their fuel expenditures.
— The Northeast Florida Builders Association provides education, research, legislative representation, media relations, promotions and programs for its 1,700-plus builder and associate members. The Association is celebrating 61 years of service to members and to the community through various charitable efforts. For more information about member benefits, area builders or the association, call (904) 725-4355 or visit online at www.nefba.com.