National automotive aftermarket parts distributor Mighty Auto Parts recently recognized the volunteerism and charitable work of its business partners with the “Mightiest of the Mighty” awards. Boyd’s Tire and Service Centers of Columbus, Ohio, was selected as one of three national winners for contributions to the community by owner Keith Boyd and general manager of its Westerville shop Mike Hoover. Bobby Williams from Eden Prairie, Minn., and David Epperly from Columbus, Ga., were also recognized.

With the help of the Boyd family, Mike Hoover leads a number of charitable efforts through Boyd’s Tire and Service, but his primary cause is providing support for families with autistic children. Hoover knows these challenges well, as his oldest son was diagnosed with severe autism and his younger son with Asperger syndrome. Through his organization called the Make it Fit Foundation, Hoover raises funds for some of the most effective and influential autism research and support agencies in Ohio.

“Mightiest of the Mighty celebrates businesses that give back to their communities through philanthropy and volunteerism,” said Ken Voelker, president and CEO of Mighty Auto Parts “We are proud to contribute to Boyd’s Tire and Service Centers to help Keith Boyd and Mike Hoover continue their work to support families with autistic children.”

Each year, Boyd’s Tire and Service, which has seven locations in the Greater Columbus area, co-sponsors and hosts a number of fundraising activities, from phone drives to community bike rides that raise tens of thousands of dollars. The Make it Fit Foundation distributes funds to autism support and research organizations, including the Ingram Autism Center at Ohio State University, Recreation Unlimited, The Lettuce Work Foundation and The Autism Society of Ohio.