SEVILLE, Ohio, Dec. 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Panther Expedite, the global leader of Premium Logistics® specializing in time-sensitive and high-value freight announces the launch of their Fill the Truck fundraiser on behalf of Toys for Tots. Partnering with local Marine Corps League #569, this annual event features Panther C.E.O. Andy Clarke driving a donated straight truck to move client cargo with all proceeds from the transportation donated to Toys for Tots. 

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101207/CL13334LOGO )

Beginning with an internal fundraiser after Thanksgiving, Panther's employees and business partners were challenged to raise funds and donate. At a community event on December 9th, with activities for families and a visit from Santa Claus, Panther employees gathered to celebrate the season and wish Andy well as he begins his drive across the United States. For a week Andy will pick-up and deliver Panther's client cargo using a donated truck, with all proceeds from transportation going to Toys for Tots. Andy will send updates from the road through @PantherExpedite, Panther's Twitter account and also through Facebook.

This is the fourth year of the Fill the Truck fundraiser that has brought over $75,000 in cash and toy donations on behalf of Panther and its partners. It began in 2009 when Andy and CIO Ed Wadel drove a Panther sprinter van for a week. The next year Andy secured his Commercial Driver's License and he hit the road with a 22-foot straight truck with Owner-Operator Lyn Brumfield who will accompany Andy again for the third year. This year driving together with a truck supplied by Fyda Freightliner, they will traverse state lines and battle inclement weather while moving time-sensitive cargo with proceeds benefiting less fortunate families.

"The holiday season is the peak season for many of Panther's customers with critical freight, and we are always up to the challenge, however this is also a season when we reflect back and consider how fortunate we are," said Clarke. "Our Fill the Truck fundraiser is perhaps my favorite way Panther gives back to the community, giving us a chance to raise awareness and donations for a needed and worthy cause."

About Panther Expedite
For shippers and manufacturers who need supply chain logistics and expedited transportation, Panther Logistics is the global leader of Premium Logistics®. For time-sensitive, high value, special security, and for normal supply chain needs Panther offers flexibility like no other transportation or 3PL company. With local expertise backed by 24/7 customer service and specialized vertical-specific solutions, we are the leader in superior customer service, focus on quality, and on-time performance. Unlike traditional transportation and 3PL companies, only Panther has the largest fleet of specialized equipment, with industry-leading technology, and a network that can accommodate any shipment schedule or timeframe. Panther is a subsidiary of Arkansas Best Corporation (Nasdaq: ABFS), with more information available online at http://www.pantherexpedite.com/.

About Toys for Tots
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not for profit organization authorized by the U.S. Marine Corps to provide fundraising and other necessary support for the annual Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. Now in its 65th year, Toys for Tots provides joy and a message of hope to less fortunate children through the gift of a new toy or book during the Christmas holiday season.  Our gifts offer these children hope, recognition, and a positive memory they will cherish for a lifetime. In 2011, Marines distributed toys to more than 7.2 million children who might not have otherwise experienced the magic of the Christmas holiday season.

SOURCE Panther Expedite