Kelberman Receives $750 from Tidal Wave Auto Spa’s 18th Annual Charity Day

New Hartford, NY — October 22, 2026 — Tidal Wave Auto Spa’s 18th annual Charity Day event, held Friday, September 18, 2026, brought the community together to support Kelberman. Thanks to the generosity of customers and community members, the Tidal Wave Auto Spa location at 8428 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford, New York raised $750 to benefit Kelberman’s mission.

Why This Partnership Matters: Kelberman helps individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities and their families access support, build connections and pursue their goals. Partnerships with local businesses like Tidal Wave Auto Spa strengthen this work while bringing our community together in support of inclusion.

Kelberman partnered with Tidal Wave Auto Spa’s New Hartford location for this year’s event. Kelberman received 50% of proceeds raised at this location on September 18th. The remaining 50% went to Tidal Wave’s corporate partners: Annandale Village, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing progressive life assistance to adults with developmental disabilities and The Joseph Sams School, a non-profit organization providing educational and therapeutic support for children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Funds Raised Will Support: The $750 donation will support Kelberman’s Utica Self Advocates (U.S.A.) group, helping members explore new opportunities, strengthen their voices and build connections within the community.

“We are grateful to Tidal Wave Auto Spa and everyone who stopped by on Charity Day to support Kelberman,” said Kelly Carinci, Interim CEO/Executive Director of Kelberman. “This generosity reflects the care our community has for the individuals and families we support. Every contribution helps us create more opportunities for people to connect, grow and thrive.”

This year’s Charity Day was Tidal Wave Auto Spa’s largest yet, with 319 participating locations. Over the event’s 18-year history, Tidal Wave has donated more than $3.5 million to charitable organizations.

“Charity Day is our chance to support the incredible organizations in the communities we serve and help them continue their impactful work,” said Scott Blackstock, founder and CEO of Tidal Wave Auto Spa.

Kelberman is an organization specializing in autism support and services throughout all stages of life. In 2005, Kelberman incorporated as a non-profit organization. Today, it supports over 1,000 children and adults, and employs over 200 full and part-time staff. Kelberman supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, fostering a sense of belonging within the community. Kelberman provides a variety of services centered on the person and their specific abilities and goals throughout life. Support and services include diagnostic evaluations, preschool and early education, behavioral health, counseling, home and community supports, an inclusive summer camp, and employment and residential housing options. Kelberman is also proud to provide educational and recreational opportunities to families and the community.

Tidal Wave Auto Spa was founded more than 25 years ago in Thomaston, Georgia, by husband-and-wife team Scott and Hope Blackstock. What began as a small-town self-service car wash grew into the first conveyor car wash to open in Georgia. Today, Tidal Wave is the fifth-largest conveyor car wash company in the nation, with 333 locations across 30 states. The company is dedicated to giving every customer an exceptional car wash experience through industry-leading car care technology, clean and inviting locations, and outstanding customer service. Tidal Wave is also committed to making a positive impact in the communities it serves. It has raised more than $8 million for local programs, service organizations, and nonprofits through its fundraising program and annual Charity Day event.

###