LAS VEGAS -

Manheim and the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association recognized a dealership for its generous charitable outreach Wednesday in Las Vegas at the NIADA Convention and Expo.

The inaugural Dealer’s Edge National Community Service Award was given to Chacon Autos Ltd., a family of dealerships in Texas.

The other four finalists for the award — each of which was spotlighted at the NIADA National Awards Banquet — were:

—81 Automotive (Hebron, Neb.)
—Hagler Affiliates, (Taylor, Texas)
—Rainwater Motor Co. Inc., (Douglasville, Ga.)
—Regal Car Sales and Credit, (Tulsa, Okla.)

“This award was created to recognize the extraordinary effort independent dealers make to better their communities,” said Mike Broe, executive vice president of U.S. operations at Manheim.

“Chacon Autos is a company founded on traditional family values, and its partnership with the Dallas Education Foundation is just one way the company is making a positive impact on the local community,” he continued. “Manheim and NIADA are proud to support their efforts in the Dallas community by presenting the first Dealer’s Edge National Community Service Award to the entire team at Chacon Autos.”

Mike Linn, chief executive officer of NIADA, added: “When Manheim approached us about doing something to recognize independent dealers, it didn’t take long for us to realize that many stand out in their communities.

“It’s not just the independent dealer himself, but the dealership’s entire staff, that makes an impact in the communities. I know Manheim has a community spirit as well, so it’s both fitting and commendable for a company like Manheim to recognize some of the top independent dealers,” Linn shared.

Broe presented Chacon Autos with a $5,000 check, which it will donate to the Dallas Education Foundation. More specifically, the funds will go to Martha Turner Reilly Elementary School.

Chacon has made several contributions to the school via donations as well as field trips, festivals and races. The dealership group has also provided mentoring and tutoring opportunities.

Among other charities that Chacon has worked with for some time includes Shoes for Orphan Souls. The charity is a Buckner International ministry that donates new shoes to at-risk children in 70 countries, including the U.S.

“Chacon Autos has been a faithful donor, volunteer, advocate and supporter of Buckner International for more than three years now, and words can hardly express our appreciation for them,” commented Belinda Branstetter, director of principal gifts for Buckner Foundation and the nominator for Chacon Autos.