Van To The Rescue

We love to share stories that embody what it means to "Love people more than we love cars." Our community is filled with people who are willing to step up and make a difference when it counts.

Recently, Mercy Education Project in Detroit, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women and children, had its van stolen. This van is crucial for taking kids on summer adventures and learning trips—opportunities they might not have otherwise.

When local reporter Hank Winchester heard about it, he reached out for help. Mike Cavanaugh from Lithia & Driveway responded immediately, later telling the ASOTU team:

"One of the things that makes me love our industry is how we come together when it matters. Hank at Channel 4 first called a competing dealer, who's a friend of mine. They didn't have any vans, so he reached out to me. Within five minutes, we secured the van these folks needed.

Many of us, as dealers, deal with car theft regularly, and while it's frustrating, we move on. But this organization relied on that van for so many things and had no way to replace it. We all know how rare passenger vans are. We had 12,000 vehicles in inventory in Michigan and only two vans like this. It warmed my heart to see how quickly our GMs were ready and willing to help."

This isn't just about replacing a van; it's about the retail auto community standing on its business together to ensure no one is left behind. That's what it means to love people more than we love cars.