CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — An emotional surprise and a shiny new set of keys marked a life-changing moment Wednesday for Avery Miller of Decatur, who was named this year’s WAND Renew-A-Ride winner.
Miller was presented with the keys to a brand-new 2025 Chevy Trax at Sam Leman Automotive Group in Champaign after being selected from more than 1,600 nominations submitted by community members.
“Based on your story and what you do for your family and community, you deserve this new Chevy Trax,” said Benji Leman as he handed Miller the keys. “Congratulations.”
The moment left Miller visibly stunned.
“I’m not sure this is real right now,” Miller said. “I had no idea about this.”
The gift comes at a critical time for Miller and his family. He, his wife, and their two young children recently moved back to central Illinois from Tennessee so his wife could pursue her dream of becoming a nurse and be closer to family support. Just before the move, however, the family’s only vehicle was totaled, leaving them without reliable transportation.
Friends say the new vehicle will ease daily challenges and help Miller continue caring for his family and serving the community.
Miller is well known for his commitment to helping others. He has organized outreach events to feed people experiencing homelessness, prayed with them, and listened to their stories while working with community members to address their needs. He is also the founder of Life as a Servant, a ministry that mentors young men through Bible studies and open discussions, offering a safe place for healing and growth.
That dedication inspired Chelsi Jones, a friend, to nominate him.
“When I saw they were doing Renew-A-Ride, Avery was the first person that came to mind,” Jones said. “I know he’s hardworking, deserving, and this was the breakthrough he needed.”
As Miller checked out the inside of his new car, he couldn’t help but smile.
“I do like the black interior,” he said with a laugh. “It matches my shoes.”
Miller’s wife, Bri, said the moment felt almost meant to be.
“We went to Nashville this past weekend and our rental was this car, but it was red,” she said. “God sent little clues for this to be my forever car—it’s crazy.”
Sam Leman Automotive Group says the Chevy Trax was chosen for its safety and reliability.
“Awesome vehicle, great gas mileage, and safe—that’s really what we want to go for,” Leman said.
As for Miller, the usually soft-spoken community servant was left nearly speechless.
“I just try my best every day and try to help others when I can,” he said. “I’m speechless right now.”
The Renew-A-Ride program honors individuals who give back to their communities by providing reliable transportation to help them continue making a difference.
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