ROGERS, Ark. -

October was a special month for America’s Car-Mart, and not just for the vehicles the buy-here, pay-here dealership chain retailed.

The company spent the month highlighting associates and their family members and friends who have overcome cancer while also raising funds to benefit the American Cancer Society (ACS). Car-Mart’s efforts resulted in a $10,000 contribution to ACS to help the organization provide much-needed resources for cancer support, prevention and research.

Since 2016, Car-Mart has donated $10,000 annually to the American Cancer Society with $2,500 each to four ACS chapters in its 12-state dealership footprint. This year, the four chapters included:

— Northwest Arkansas
— Bowling Green, Ky.
— Texarkana, Texas
— Montgomery Ala.

“We understand how important it is to be a part of the fight against cancer, as many of our associates, family, and friends have been affected by the disease,” Car-Mart president and chief executive officer Jeff Williams said in a news release. “That’s why we’re proud to partner with the American Cancer Society to help raise awareness and funds for cancer programs.”

Car-Mart’s October promotion, “Drive Away Cancer,” was aimed at raising awareness of breast cancer and other cancers. During the month, customers could drive away in a quality vehicle for $1,000 off the down payment.

For every vehicle sold, Car-Mart also donated to the American Cancer Society, up to $10,000.

“Our October ‘Drive Away Cancer’ promotion is a great way to come together with our associates, customers and our partners at the American Cancer Society,” Williams said. “Working together, we can make a difference in helping those afflicted with cancer.”

Additionally, throughout the month on its website, Car-Mart featured stories of associates who currently have cancer, have experienced cancer or have helped loved ones during cancer treatments.

ACS noted that breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among U.S. women and is the second-leading cause of death among women after lung cancer.

“Cancer research saves lives. Every new discovery we make can prevent and treat cancer,” said Jen Wasem, senior philanthropy manager at American Cancer Society’s South Region.

“The American Cancer Society fights for affordable, quality health care for all, promoting programs and policies to make mammograms affordable and accessible for research funding,” Wasem continued.

“The American Cancer Society is grateful to America’s Car-Mart and to all the donors who make life-saving breast cancer research possible,” she went on to say.