For several years, Alex Schoening saw a recurring need among the refugee communities he served in SW Washington. Families, trying to survive in a new country, culture, and language, needed reliable and safe transportation in order to live, work, and thrive. Differing languages and cultures significantly impact refugees’ abilities to work and raise families. In 2013, Alex began routine vehicle and appliance maintenance for refugee families he met through the course of church ministry. Using this shared love for cars, he found a way to deepen relationships and forged a number of lasting friendships with amazing families.

 

After retiring from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office in 2021, Alex focused on developing a way to welcome refugees and helping them to thrive by providing quality auto repair, as well automotive-related education and assisting those in getting their driver’s licenses.

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Today, BASE exists to address this need and others through automotive service, education, and relationship.