‘Life-changing opportunity’: Three local business owners giveaway a free car to a mother in need

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Three local business owners came together for a big surprise on Friday.

It was an unforgettable morning as the mother of three, Tylandra Tate, walked through the doors of A1 Automotive and was gifted a gently used car, free of charge.

The owner of A1 Automotive, Kendall Warnock, started a nonprofit to give away cars to those in need.

Ashley Milner came across his social media post and decided to take action on her friend’s behalf.

“I submitted an application. Kendall said it was a lengthy one, but I knew it would be a life-changing opportunity,” Milner said. “I knew based on the economic opportunity, not just with her, but with her family, that this would be life-changing for not just one person but multiple people.”

From there, Milner knocked on doors, looking for someone to collaborate with on expenses.

Milner found Vivian Clough of AAA Insurance Agency to give Tate a year-long free membership and help with insurance.

“I saw a need, and I knew I had the capabilities and community partnerships to make it come forth,” Milner said.

A1 Automotive fixed up the car after it was donated by a good Samaritan.

The collaboration from Clough, Milner and Warnock’s team left a warm feeling in their hearts.

“It’s very rewarding to use talents that we have to make someone else’s life easier,” said David Ideus, with A1 Automotive.

Tylandra Tate was filled with emotion and said this changes everything for her.

“This is a great opportunity to have three people, a trinity,” she said. “To have three people come together and see something in me, and be willing to help me the way I help others, it’s a blessing. To have this coverage, this vehicle, that support system, it’s amazing. I’m very grateful.”

This giveaway also hit close to home for Milner and Clough, who said they had someone help them in life, and they’re happy to just pay it forward.