Community Unites to Get Beloved Teacher a New Van

March 4, 2014 - The city of Watertown has once again demonstrated the depths of its compassion and generosity. The Greater Boston community, with the support of Toyota of Watertown, has come together to raise $60,000 to purchase a new handicap-accessible van for beloved Watertown teacher Chris Cotreau.

Cotreau, 47, has been a mainstay of the Watertown community for over 10 years, leading an afterschool woodworking program at the Lowell School despite a serious disability. Nearly paralyzed in 1992, Cotreau gets around mostly in a wheelchair; he can only walk short distances. When his van recently stopped working, he was afraid he would have to give up the work he loves for good.

Fortunately, that's when the local community stepped in. Knowing Chris needed tens of thousands of dollars replace his handicap-accessible van, his friend Matt Urcioli started an online fundraising campaign. Through the generous support of coworkers, parents, and students, the campaign has managed to raise over $27,000 in little over a month.

Recognizing Chris' courage and determination, Toyota of Watertown then pledged to provide the remaining funds Chris needed to replace his van.

"We are honored to be able to contribute to Chris's needs." says Adam Skolnick, General Manager at Toyota of Watertown. "I'm so happy that our community rallied around such a worthy cause, and Toyota of Watertown is happy to help."

The result? Chris is now the proud owner of a brand new Toyota Sienna upgraded to accommodate his physical challenges, and is thrilled to be back working in the community he loves-and that loves him even more.

About Toyota of Watertown:

Family-owned for more than 50 years, Toyota of Watertown is one of Greater Boston's premier Toyota dealerships. A multiple-time recipient of Toyota's prestigious President's Award, they are widely acclaimed for their low prices and large selection of new and used vehicles, in addition to an award-winning customer service department. They are committed to ensuring their customers' satisfaction throughout their period of ownership.

For more information, call Toyota of Watertown at 617-926-5200, visit them on the web at www.toyotaofwatertown.com, like their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/toyotaofwatertown, or stop by their showroom on 149 Arsenal Street in Watertown, MA.