Donor replaces stolen Puzzle Pieces van

March 26, 2019 | 3:04 am

Updated March 25, 2019 | 6:54 pm

Puzzle Pieces Executive Director Amanda Owen was surprised earlier this month when a 1994 Nissan Quest van used to transport clients was stolen from Center Piece, an adult day training program located behind Towne Square Mall. | Photo contributed by Amanda Owen

Puzzle Pieces Executive Director Amanda Owen was surprised earlier this month when a 1994 Nissan Quest van used to transport clients was stolen from Center Piece, an adult day training program located behind Towne Square Mall.

Though Owen reported the van stolen to Owensboro Police Department, it has yet to be located. Owen said last week Stephen Bryson contacted her to talk about the stolen vehicle.

“He actually wasn’t aware of Puzzle Pieces at the time, when his wife shared the story with him,” Owen said. “His wife actually learned about the story from ‘Live with Jeff.’ She follows his episodes, which I think is amazing.”

Owen said, Bryson is involved with the Kuttawa Cannonball Run, which is a poker run at held in June at Kentucky Lake in Kuttawa, Ky. Bryson said race organizers select nonprofits to raise funds. In years past, organizations like Riley Children’s Hospital and veterans programs have benefitted from the run.

Bryson researched Puzzle Pieces, and Owen said he was impressed with their program for Owensboro families and Kuttawa Cannonball Run organizers wanted to purchase Puzzle Pieces a seven-passenger van to replace their stolen one.

“Then as if that wasn’t enough, he then proceeded to tell me that they wanted clients and staff of puzzle pieces to come to the event,” Owen said. “He was excited as this year could be a big year for them. He personally shared his connection and love to someone with autism and seemed excited to support Puzzle Pieces.”

Bryson bought the van, got it detailed and delivered it Monday morning. He arrived to a parking lot of Center Piece clients excited about their new transportation.

Photo contributed by Amanda Owen

March 26, 2019 | 3:04 am

Share this Article

Other articles you may like