IRVINE, Calif. -

In an effort to give back to the community during the holidays, Autobytel employees participated in a food drive to benefit Families Forward — an Orange County nonprofit that assists families in financial crisis.

Initiated by the company’s Good Works Council, Autobytel employees were challenged to raise food donations for the organization, “resulting in an overwhelming outpouring of support and goodwill to those in need,” company officials noted.

In fact, employees ended up contributing hundreds of food items to the cause, which were delivered to Families Forward just in time to provide Christmas dinners to deserving families.

Autobytel even noted that this year’s food drive proved to be one of the biggest and most successful in the last few years at the company.

“I’m encouraged to see our employees’ enthusiasm and generous spirit in giving to the local community,” said Autobytel president and chief executive officer Jeffrey Coats.

“Our Good Works Council truly understands the meaning of the holiday season, and I’m proud of our staff’s commitment and dedication to these worthwhile organizations,” he continued.

Autobytel’s Good Works Council was founded in 2010 to encourage its employees to give back to the community in which the company is based, officials explained. 

Highlighting the charity in greater detail, founded in 1984, Families Forward strives to supply individuals and families with the tools to achieve and maintain self sufficiency.

The organization offers an array of services including career coaching, life-skills education and food assistance, officials noted.