Travis Kelce’s growing connection to Cleveland sports has taken on added significance as the Cleveland Guardians continue to strengthen their community ties. Express Wash Concepts (EWC), the parent company of Clean Express Auto Wash, has raised $53,690 for Cleveland Guardians Charities through its annual fundraising campaign. The donation highlights how a local business partnership can turn everyday purchases into meaningful support for young people and families. Kelce, who joined the Guardians’ ownership group as a minority investor in May 2026, also has a personal connection to the team and the city where he grew up.
Cleveland Guardians Charities receives $53,690 donation
EWC announced the contribution on June 23, 2026, following its fifth annual CLE Inspires campaign. The fundraising drive centred on a special three-day promotion that encouraged customers to purchase the limited-time Guardians Shine + Ceramic car wash. A portion of every sale went towards Cleveland Guardians Charities.The latest campaign delivered a substantial increase over the previous year. In 2025, EWC donated $28,450 to the charity. The 2026 total of $53,690 nearly doubled that amount, reflecting strong customer participation and support from employees.John Roush, founder and CEO of Express Wash Concepts, credited the communities the company serves for helping the initiative grow.“Our customers and team members continue to show what’s possible when a community comes together around a great cause,” said John Roush, founder and CEO of EWC.“This year’s campaign nearly doubled last year’s contribution, which speaks volumes about the generosity of the communities we serve. At EWC, we’re committed to making a meaningful impact beyond the wash, and we’re honored to partner with Cleveland Guardians Charities to help create more opportunities for local youth and families.”The contribution forms part of EWC Cares, the company’s wider community programme. Its efforts include fundraising events, sponsorships, donation drives and grants for organisations working in areas such as education, youth development, health and family support.EWC was also accepting applications for its 2026 community grants through October 31, offering another opportunity for eligible organisations to seek support.
Travis Kelce’s Cleveland Guardians investment adds a hometown connection
Kelce’s involvement with the Guardians gives the charity partnership another point of interest. In May 2026, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end joined the Major League Baseball franchise’s ownership group as a minority investor. The Cleveland Heights native grew up supporting Cleveland sports, making the investment a personal milestone rather than simply another business venture.The ownership move reflects Kelce’s long-standing affection for his hometown. While the percentage of his stake and the purchase price have not been publicly disclosed, his investment gives him a direct connection to the organisation beyond his years as a fan.Meanwhile, Clean Express Auto Wash operates 58 locations across Cleveland, Detroit, Toledo and Pittsburgh. Its partnership with the Guardians demonstrates how businesses can use sports promotions to engage customers while supporting community initiatives.For Cleveland Guardians Charities, the latest donation provides additional resources for its work with local youth and families. For EWC, the campaign shows how a short promotional event can produce a lasting community benefit.