Cookeville, Tenn. — Averitt Express announced a $35,000 contribution to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital after its annual Averitt Cares for Kids Family Softball Tournament attracted more than 1,350 participants and spectators.
The event, held at the company’s home base in Cookeville, doubles as a rally point for drivers, dispatchers, and families who spend long hours on the road. For a trucking operation that relies on crew cohesion, a community‑focused gathering reinforces the camaraderie that keeps fleets moving. By linking a popular sport with a charitable cause, Averitt gives its drivers a tangible reason to feel proud of the banner they fly.
Twenty‑five teams fielded 350 players while 38 volunteers kept the schedule humming through 46 games. The turnout set a new attendance record, prompting Averitt President and Chief Operating Officer Barry Blakely to declare the day “incredible for our entire team.” In response, the carrier pledged $35,000 to St. Jude, earmarked for research and treatment of childhood cancers. Blakely added the company plans to expand the tournament, hoping to draw even larger crowds and larger donations in future years.
What This Means for Drivers
For CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators, the donation signals that the carrier invests in more than just miles and fuel. A visible commitment to charitable work can improve driver morale, making it easier for fleets to retain talent in a market where truck driver jobs are scarce and competition among trucking companies hiring is fierce. Drivers who see their employer supporting a respected institution like St. Jude may feel a stronger connection to the brand, which can translate into lower turnover and smoother OTR truck driver operations. Moreover, the event creates networking opportunities that can lead to mentorships, route assignments, or even referrals for open positions.
Industry Reaction
While Averitt’s donation stands alone in the source, the broader trucking community has a history of rallying around charitable causes, from food drives to veteran support. Industry groups such as the American Trucking Associations have praised carriers that allocate resources to nonprofit partnerships, noting that community goodwill often correlates with safer driving practices and better compliance with FMCSA regulations. As more carriers publicize their philanthropic efforts, driver recruitment platforms report higher engagement from candidates who prioritize employers with a strong social‑responsibility profile.
Key Points
- 25 teams, 350 players competed in the tournament.
- 46 games were played over the course of the day.
- 38 volunteers helped run the event without a hitch.
- Averitt Express donated $35,000 to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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