Business owner gives back to Hoffman Estates High
Students of Hoffman Estates High School Auto Shop class listened intently as former student and current Collision Service Center of Schaumburg owner Ernie De Loera gave an inspirational presentation about how he turned his life around after enrolling in the automotive class.
De Loera shared his personal challenges and obstacles that many teenagers can relate to today. Not only had he discovered a skill he did not know he had, but he also made a decision to change his attitude. After finding an environment that fostered his natural talents, he developed hope and direction.
De Loera emphasized to the students that they too had choices in spite of their challenges, past mistakes or misfortunes. He wanted the students to realize they can create their own path in life. He spoke to them about how important it is to try new things and discover what their talent is and what they are passionate about.
De Loera found his talent through the school's automotive class, which was just a steppingstone. After a successful career in the auto body collision business, he and his wife, Aurora, decided to take a risk and buy a shop of their own - Collision Service Center of Schaumburg.
Knowing how much the Hoffman Estates High School class impacted his life, De Loera felt it important to return to his roots with a sincere desire to give back to those that mentored him.
Collision Service Center has joined efforts with Hoffman Estates High School's Applied Technology Department Chairman Dave Ligman to help students discover they have choices in spite of their current circumstances, doubts, or past mistakes.
Each student in the Advance Automotive class was offered an opportunity to submit an essay on three thought-provoking questions: What motivates you? What adversity are you trying to overcome? What is your goal? On Nov. 11, De Loera generously donated $1,500 to the top essay.
"It feels good to give back to where it all started for me and to inspire students on their path to a successful future," De Loera said. "The whole experience of returning to Hoffman Estates High School and working with Dave and his students has been very rewarding."
De Loera and everyone at Collision Service Center are grateful for this opportunity to support Hoffman Estates High School and look forward to a continued relationship.
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