WE LIKE THE BIG RED TRUCK
My Trucker Buddy Class is Mrs. Alston's, first grade class from the William H. Owen Elementary School in Fayetteville, NC. Along with her aide Mrs Glasco, she is in charge of teaching the “Awesome Achievers” who have adopted me and my "Big Red Truck."

When I first read the articles from other drivers who have been a part of the Trucker Buddy Program, I thought that I might not have the time to spare. What I discovered is that I spent more time in the truck stops than it takes to touch the lives of 16 happy young people.

Mr. Hojo is what the kids call me. When I visited the school recently, the school allowed all 300 students to visit the Red Truck during their lunch periods. It was amazing how excited they were. Then later in the day the students drew pictures of the Red Truck and displayed them all over the school walls for an open house. Whenever I'm in the area ( I try to get their once a month) I stop by the school and visit my Trucker Buddies and share a few minutes about my travels. More importantly, I listen to what they have been doing.

I usually drop them a postcard or e-mail pictures of where I am on the road or points of interest that may fit into their studies. You would be surprised what an impact you can have on these young people. I find myself thinking as I ride down the road, "I wonder if the kids would like to see what I am seeing?” About then out comes the camera, and off goes another letter. It sure has made my road a lot brighter knowing that I have my Trucker Buddies with me.

The support from ATS has been fantastic. They made up gift bags that helped me to put a smile on the faces of my first grade class. Along with ATS involvement my family gets involved and helps to show off the "Big Red Truck". So as you see it is truly a worthwhile program that benefits everyone. If you have the time, I highly recommend the Trucker Buddy Program… It makes the road a lot less lonely.

Trucker Buddy
Howard Johnsen
ATS, Inc. #15786

Any professional driver with a current commercial drivers license (CDL) may apply to become a Trucker Buddy. (Drivers are subject to screening.) Go to www.truckerbuddy.com and fill out the registration form, call them at 1-800-MY-BUDDY or talk to a Trucker Buddy, like Howard Johnsen for more information.

Current ATS Trucker Buddies, if you are planning a visit with your class, remember to contact Larry Weston at 320-255-7422 or e-mail larrywe@atsinc.com two weeks in advance so we can mail out a gift for you to give your class.