Austin’s first responders perform incredibly risky jobs every day, with EMS, firefighters, and police officers often being the initial teams on the scene during critical incidents. Over the last two years, they have responded to more than 3,000 calls where ballistic protection was necessary, highlighting an urgent need for adequate safety gear due to budgetary limitations, as pointed out by the Central Texas Public Safety Commission (CTPSC).
To address this need, a community-driven initiative known as Back The Brave is stepping up to provide vital funding for life-saving, bullet-resistant vests for local first responders. This initiative is supported by Covert Cadillac Buick GMC through its #CovertCommitment initiative to bolster the safety and well-being of public safety personnel in Austin. Covert Auto encourages the community to join in on this critical support effort.
Mario Juarez, General Manager of Covert Cadillac Buick GMC, expressed, “At Covert Auto Group, serving our community isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are.” He emphasized the company’s pride in aiding the CTPSC through the Back the Brave campaign. Monthly, Covert Cadillac Buick GMC donates a portion of its sales directly towards equipping first responders with essential protective gear.
Clinical Specialist Rich Andrade, who works with a specialized team managing 9-1-1 calls in Downtown Austin, shared the profound impact of these vests. “I understand this equipment was directly appropriated through funds this commission offered. This body armor helps my team work long hours comfortably and, importantly, it gives them the confidence to concentrate on the work in front of them,” he stated.
Covert Cadillac Buick GMC’s commitment extends beyond first responders, as demonstrated in their recent initiative to assist families and businesses affected by floods in Central Texas. They matched donations up to $25,000 for organizations such as the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund and Texas Search and Rescue, effectively doubling the impact of every contribution.
The company’s legacy of community service spans over a century, with philanthropic efforts deeply rooted in their operations since 1909. Initiatives like Back the Brave and flood relief efforts exemplify their ongoing commitment to Austin. General Manager Juarez remarked, “This initiative is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a powerful example of what we can achieve together.”
Austin’s resilience lies in its collective effort to support one another. Covert Cadillac Buick GMC invites everyone to contribute to the Back the Brave initiative by visiting centraltexaspublicsafety.com. Whether through donations or volunteering, every action holds significance in fortifying the safety and support of the Austin community.