Calling all Ontarians! From May 27 to June 1, 2013, OTS and the Ontario Automotive Recyclers Association (OARA) are hosting the fourth annual OARA Tire Take Back collection event. Participating OARA locations across the province will be collecting tires to raise funds for The Sunshine Foundation of Canada.

An unlimited number of passenger, light truck and agricultural tires can be dropped off by Ontario residents at over 60 participating OARA locations in Ontario for FREE, during business hours. All proceeds from the recycled tires will go towards Sunshine Foundation, to help fulfill the dreams of children with severe physical disabilities or life-threatening illnesses. Each eligible tire collected generates approximately $2.00 or more for the Sunshine Foundation.

Over the past three years, the OARA Tire Take Back events have raised more than $500,000 for Sunshine Foundation. This year, our goal is to raise more than $100,000.

OTS is also giving back to the community that collects the most tires. The community prize: $15,000 worth of sustainable recycled tire products to be used to revitalize a local community space or not-for-profit project. Imagine! That could mean rubber mulch for community gardens, outdoor tiles for the public square, recycled rubber pavers for downtown sidewalks or safety surfacing for a local playground.

Last year’s winner, Woodbeck Auto Parts in Stirling, Ontario collected nearly 25,000 tires. They directed the community prize toward the refurbishment of a local hockey arena. The Stirling District Recreation Centre of Stirling-Rawdon will benefit from the replacement of old flooring with sustainable Pro-Fit athletic rubber flooring from National Rubber Technologies (NRT).

It is with help from the people within our communities, like Stirling, that make this tire recycling event and big dreams possible. Not only are we contributing to a greener economy, we are making a difference in the lives of children. We know that our members are excited to raise even more money this year and we need your help.

Click here to learn more about locations near you, how you can participate in the OARA Tire Take Back event or reach out to us on Twitter @RethinkTires with the hashtag #TireTakeBack.