Joel Ayres announced his retirement as executive director for the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), effective April 30, 2024. Ayres spent more than nine years as the foundation's first director.
“I was honored to have been chosen as the first executive director of AACF. I was blessed with a fantastic board of trustees to work with these past nine-plus years,” said Ayres. “I am proud of the work we were able to accomplish, and I love the mission of the foundation. Outside of the limelight, we help many individuals and families through kindness and support. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve and help my brothers and sisters in the automotive aftermarket.”
During his career, Ayres significantly impacted the automotive aftermarket industry and his communities through his charitable efforts. As a board member of SEMA, he spearheaded SEMA Cares, which oversees the organization's philanthropic initiatives, and chaired the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Committee. He's also been involved with the Sacramento Heart Gallery, Big Brothers of Northeastern Indiana, Adam Petty Victory Junction Camp, Child Help Village, Newcomers High School, and Camp Ukandu. As a result of his work with his communities, Ayres has been awarded the Heart Gallery Dedicated Service Award, SEMA Hall of Fame induction, SEMA Person of the Year recognition, and most recently, induction into the TORA Hall of Fame, among others.
Current AACF President Jon Owens said, “The foundation is in a great place, as solid and as capable of helping as we’ve ever been in our 65 years of service. Joel played a major role in lifting us to this place and on behalf of our board, we wish him nothing but joy, relaxation, and time to spend with his loving family in his retirement years.”
