With local communities in need because of the coronavirus outbreak, several car dealerships are pushing competition to the side for the greater good.
Diana Lee, CEO and co-founder of Constellation Agency, saw the good that dealerships in New Jersey and New York City were doing in their communities and knew there was a better way to combine those efforts into one cohesive unit.
That idea eventually formed into the Do-Good Auto Coalition, which has helped dealerships -- which includes Beyer Ford in Morristown, DCH Millburn Audi and Miller Buick GMC in Woodbridge -- band together and help their communities by any means necessary.
“We have so many people helping but they’re all doing it separately," said Lee, who described the coalition as the middle man to help coordinate the charitable efforts. "Whether they’re creating ventilators or they’re sending supplies, there isn’t enough volume in terms of all the assistance that we can be doing for the community.
"When I thought about that, I started to wonder if all the communication channels can come towards one area where we can work together.”
The coalition, which also has found volunteering dealerships in New York and Texas, is helping steer the requests of those in need in the right direction.
Whether that includes picking up and delivering food and prescriptions to the elderly, delivering donated supplies to hospitals and medical centers or using the dealership facilities as a location for dropped off donations, Lee has already seen how much the coalition has helped in less than two weeks of existence.
“We’re here to listen to the communities asking for help," Lee said. "We’re here to reach out to the auto dealerships and (original equipment manufacturers) to let them know that those areas in the communities need the help. We’re trying to play the middle man. We’re buying, supplying and driving at this point anything that is needed.”
In Randolph, Sawyer Lyons Buick GMC offered loaner vehicles for healthcare providers who needed a ride to work. In Morristown, the Beyer Family Automotive group distributed respirator masks and food to the local hospital and delivered food to the elderly in need in the area.
Those examples has been just a few of the ways the coalition has helped dealerships make an impact in their community. It’s a charge that Lee hopes can find a nationwide presence as the coronavirus continues to impact everyday life.
“It’s critical right now. Everyone is listening to the news but it’s different listening to that then getting these heart-felt messages," Lee said. "That’s what really is driving our team. We’re on the front lines and we’re hearing the cries. We want to make a difference right now.”