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Mitsubishi Dealer Upholds Family Legacy With Strong Focus On Education And Community Support
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is honouring dealer partners who significantly contribute to their communities. These dealers offer more than just a place to buy cars; they help their towns flourish in good times and recover during tough periods. They consistently rise to meet various challenges.
Education has been a central theme for Colonial Auto Group over its 79 years in Western Pennsylvania. CJ Spadafora, a third-generation dealer, learned the business from his father and grandfather. Today, he draws inspiration from his family's educational background, as both his parents were teachers. This influence is evident in how he runs Colonial Mitsubishi in Indiana, PA.
Colonial Mitsubishi's employees and customers proudly drive Mitsubishi vehicles and share the brand with others. They also support the next generation and the educators shaping their futures. The dealership's commitment to education reflects the values instilled by Spadafora's family.
CJ Spadafora shared insights into the history of Colonial Auto Group, which began in 1946 with his grandfather. His father took over in the early 1970s, and CJ joined the business around 1999 or 2000 after college. The dealership has remained family-owned and operated since its inception.
Spadafora initially pursued college football and self-exploration in Colorado before returning home at his father's request. His father offered to teach him everything about the business if he moved back home. This decision allowed CJ to work alongside his father for 19 years until his passing.
Regarding future plans for the dealership, Spadafora expressed hope that his three children might continue the family tradition. He emphasised that while he would love for them to join the business, it ultimately depends on their choice as they are still young.
Local Outreach Initiatives
The dealership actively participates in community outreach programs. CJ's grandfather helped bring four local manufacturers to Indiana County, boosting the economy and reducing unemployment. Both his grandfather and father were involved in charity operations like United Way and the local Chamber of Commerce.
CJ himself has served on various boards, including 18 years with United Way and multiple terms on the Chamber of Commerce board. The dealership feels fortunate to give back at such a significant level due to community support.
Mitsubishi Brand Reception
The community's reception of Mitsubishi vehicles has grown positively over time. Initially unfamiliar with the brand when introduced in the early 1980s, residents now recognise Mitsubishi for its quality vehicles at reasonable prices, adding value for customers.
Innovative Giveaway Program
A notable initiative by Colonial Mitsubishi is an annual vehicle giveaway event inspired by a friend’s similar program in Oklahoma. Partnering with the local Chamber of Commerce’s "Excellence in Education" program, deserving students take courses on excelling in school before being nominated by peers or teachers for a chance to win a car.
This program also extends to teachers, reflecting CJ’s appreciation for educators influenced by his parents' teaching backgrounds. The giveaway aims to ease teachers' lives while showing appreciation for their hard work.
Future Aspirations
The giveaway event has been held twice so far, attracting around 520 attendees each year. CJ hopes to continue this tradition for many more years, aiming to increase attendance to over 1,000 people to make it even more special for students and teachers alike.
Mitsubishi Motors North America operates through approximately 330 dealer partners across the U.S., handling sales, marketing, and customer service of Mitsubishi vehicles. Their five-year plan "Momentum 2030" aims to expand and refresh their vehicle lineup annually until 2030 with advanced technology engines including hybrids and electric vehicles.
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