Beyond the Shine: ZIPS Car Wash Drives Strategic Corporate Giving

PLANO, TX – September 08, 2026 – As customers across 19 states prepare for a weekend car wash, ZIPS Car Wash is turning the routine task into a powerful act of patriotism and philanthropy. The company has announced its second annual Patriot Weekend, running from September 10–13, a cornerstone of its deepening three-year partnership with Folds of Honor. The initiative, which channels proceeds from washes and memberships to fund educational scholarships for the families of fallen and disabled military and first responders, represents a sophisticated model of corporate social responsibility (CSR) that is becoming increasingly vital in the consumer service industry.

While the concept of corporate giving is not new, ZIPS's approach demonstrates a strategic integration of philanthropy into its core business operations. By leveraging its extensive network of over 185 locations, the company transforms each transaction into a potential contribution, making it simple for customers to participate in a cause that resonates deeply around the anniversary of September 11th.

A Partnership Built on Purpose and Growth

The collaboration between ZIPS and Folds of Honor began in 2024 and has shown remarkable growth, underscoring a long-term commitment. In its inaugural year, the partnership raised over $92,000. That figure nearly doubled in 2025, with a record donation of $170,000. With a cumulative contribution nearing $300,000 in just two years, the impact on Folds of Honor's mission is substantial.

“We are so grateful for the unwavering support from ZIPS Car Wash,” said Folds of Honor founder and CEO Lt Col Dan Rooney. “The patriotic team at ZIPS has made a significant positive impact on the lives of military and first responder families through their long-term commitment to education.”

This year's Patriot Weekend continues the established donation model. For every $20 Premier Wash purchased, ZIPS will donate $2.50 directly to the nonprofit. A portion of proceeds from all other wash levels will also be contributed. The campaign extends beyond a single weekend for the company's most loyal customers; throughout the entire month of September, a portion of every active ZIPS Unlimited® membership fee will be donated, linking customer loyalty directly to sustained charitable support. This multi-pronged approach ensures multiple streams of revenue for the cause while catering to different customer segments.

The Strategic Value of Corporate Responsibility

ZIPS's initiative is a case study in how modern CSR can serve as both a powerful brand differentiator and a driver of business value. In a competitive service market, such programs foster deep customer loyalty and positive brand association. By aligning with a respected organization like Folds of Honor, ZIPS reinforces its identity as a community-focused enterprise, a reputation bolstered by its 2025 Newsweek recognition for customer service.

“Our goal is to make giving back simple and meaningful for every customer,” said Pete Nani, CEO of ZIPS Car Wash. “With 188 locations ready to serve our communities, every wash is an opportunity to make a difference. Patriot Weekend gives our customers an easy way to support the families who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

This strategy of embedding philanthropy into the customer experience is a growing trend. It moves beyond a one-off corporate check, creating a participatory relationship where customers feel they are part of the effort. The campaign also includes options for customers to add a direct donation of $1, $3, or $5 at the point of sale, with 100% of these add-ons going directly to Folds of Honor. This transparency and directness are key to building trust and encouraging participation. The distribution of free co-branded stickers further serves as a low-cost marketing tool that spreads awareness and provides a tangible reminder of the shared contribution.

Meeting a Critical National Need

The importance of ZIPS’s contributions is magnified when contextualized within the scale of Folds of Honor's mission and the persistent demand for its services. Since 2007, the nonprofit has awarded nearly 73,000 educational scholarships totaling over $340 million. Its financial stewardship is exemplary, with a four-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum rating on Candid/GuideStar, reflecting its commitment to ensuring that 91% of every dollar raised goes directly to scholarship programs.

These scholarships support K-12 private schooling, tutoring, and a wide range of post-secondary and graduate programs. In 2022, Folds of Honor expanded its charter to include the families of first responders, recognizing the parallel sacrifices made by police, firefighters, and EMTs. Despite its success, the need remains immense. For the 2025-2026 academic year, approximately 7,700 qualified applicants could not be fully funded due to resource limitations, highlighting the critical importance of sustained corporate partnerships.

ZIPS joins a prestigious list of corporate partners, including Anheuser-Busch and Delta Air Lines, demonstrating that businesses of all sizes and sectors can play a role. By creating an accessible, recurring, and highly visible campaign, ZIPS Car Wash not only provides a significant financial boost to a vital national cause but also sets a standard for how consumer-facing businesses can effectively merge profit with purpose.