Each year, Christian Brothers Automotives’ across the nation dedicate one day to give back to local communities. This year, the Highlands Ranch location helped create a day of service, smiles and food for many community members.
As part of their brand and goal to change the way people perceive the automotive repair industry, Christian Brothers Automotive encourages its team members to be intentional about giving back to the community.
“One of the ways we’ve done that is by designating a day for Christian Brothers Automotive locations to participate in a National Day of Service [in October],” said Jared Beard, owner of Christian Brother Automotive Highlands Ranch.
Christian Brothers’ National Day of Service was originally created by a franchisee in Austin, Texas in 2005 as a way to give back to the community through a dedicated service day.
Since opening in 2014, the Highlands Ranch location has participated every year.
The day of service began with just a handful of shops doing 15 to 20 free oil changes for single mothers on a Saturday, which is a day the shop is typically closed.
For the Highlands Ranch team, it has grown into servicing over 80 cars free of charge for people in need within the community.
“In addition to doing 80 free oil changes, we also looked for safety items on the cars that, if left unaddressed, would put the vehicle owner and other drivers on the road in danger,” said Beard. “These safety items are somewhat common because the people being helped are often faced with financial difficulties.”
Christian Brothers Automotive Highlands Ranch often services cars with little to no brakes, dangerously worn suspension components and bald tires.
This year, on National Service Day, the Highlands Ranch team performed over $25,000 worth of services for free, said Beard.
“The day went beyond cars being serviced inside the shop,” he said.
Christian Brothers Automotives Highlands Ranch partnered with Manna Connect, a local nonprofit organization affiliated with Cherry Hills Community Church.
Throughout the day, volunteers spoke with community members and offered burgers, hot dogs, beverages, face painting and a bounce house for children as well as gift cards to local businesses.
Many of the guests that received service were clients of Manna Connect and other local nonprofits that aim to serve families in need within the community.
Additionally, employees at the Highlands Ranch location also donated their time.
“Our employees donate their time and talents to tangibly make a difference in someone’s life by providing essential car service that they may not be able to afford to do on their own,” said Beard.
Among the many individuals who gave their time, Beard said Christian Brothers Automotives purchased car parts on behalf of the car owner’s and other local businesses provided services.
Colorado Petroleum donated oil, Factory Motor Parts provided oil filters and because Christian Brothers Automotives Highlands Ranch don’t sell tires, the team sends the recipients to Discount Tire and pays the bill.
“To our community, the yearly event continues to show our dedication to serving community members and being a true neighborhood partner,” said Beard.