TURNERS FALLS — Traditionally, the gift for a 75th anniversary is a diamond, but the employees and clients at The United Arc are perfectly happy with a pre-owned vehicle.
“It’s just a huge sense of relief,” said Fred Warren, The United Arc’s CEO.
He said the Ford Explorer, which was donated to the nonprofit by Greenfield Chevrolet earlier this month, will be used to transport participants to activities and events.
“It really allows our staff to bring more people,” Warren said. “It makes it that much more feasible.”
Steve McConley, The United Arc’s facilities supervisor, was at Greenfield Chevrolet purchasing a vehicle for personal use in late 2025, when he mentioned to owner Alex Castergini the nonprofit’s need for one.
“I told him immediately that I wanted to get involved,” Castergini recalled. “It took a while to find a nice vehicle that’s reliable, something we can give them that will last a while.”
The donation marks one year in business for Greenfield Chevrolet, and also comes during Development Disabilities Awareness Month. Castergini closed on McGovern Chevrolet at 54 Main St. and McGovern Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram at 39 Beacon St. a year ago, though he shuttered the latter.
Castergini said he remains committed to giving back to the community in various ways, and “partnering with The United Arc just felt right.”