SALISBURY — Last month, the Rowan County United Way gave away $25,000 as part of their fall fundraising campaign to go towards a new car for one of the people who donated to the organization. Out of 12 finalists, Roosevelt Bowles from New York Air Brake was selected as the winner.

On Dec. 14, Bowles stopped by Randy Marion Kia to pick up his new 2022 Dodge Charger. After a few weeks of looking over his options and hearing some advice, Bowles believes he found the ideal car. 

“I took my time to make sure I was making the right decision. I talked to my father about it and he told me to make sure I get something around that price range and not something outrageous. That was my initial thought, to get a $60-70,000 car, but he talked me out of it,” Bowles said. “I like the color, I’ve always wanted a Dodge Charger. I always get their rentals and they ride pretty nice. That’s what attracted me to it.”

Hoyet Morris, general sales manager at Randy Marion Kia, says they partner with the United Way and other local entities in order to show everyone how important it is devote time and money to those who deserve it during the holidays. 

“It goes to show how the company actually extends gratitude to the community and tries to help the community give back in every aspect. I think that’s what all of this is really about,” Morris said.

Bowles emphasizes that without the United Way, he wouldn’t be driving home in his dream car.

“I want to thank the United Way for giving the donors an opportunity to actually win something. Good things do come out when you give back,” Bowles said.