Did Sport Subaru South go above and beyond, provide exceptional service, or support causes that are important to you? We'd love to hear about it.
We are honored to be nationally recognized by Subaru of America, Inc. for our dedication to living the Subaru Love Promise.
The 2026 Subaru Love Promise HEART Award recognizes Subaru retailers who use the principles of HEART: Honesty, Empathy, Appreciation, and Respect to earn your Trust.
We have been recognized for providing exemplary customer service and staying committed to our community.
Here at Sport Subaru South, we love making a positive impact on the lives of all of our customers, employees, and neighbors. We thank you for your support.
The Subaru Love Promise® is our vision to show love and respect to all people at every interaction with Subaru. Subaru and our retailers believe every day gives us an opportunity to positively impact the world around us – by how we support each other, our customers, and our community. Together, we are committed to making the world a better place.
The Love Promise is what makes Subaru More Than a Car Company® and a Subaru retailer More Than a Car Dealer®. It sets a standard that we are committed to living every day.
At Sport Subaru South, we believe in being a positive force in our community, not just with donations, but with actions that set an example for others to follow. We aim to make the world a better place through several key initiatives that help support and protect people, pets, and our planet:
Did Sport Subaru South go above and beyond, provide exceptional service, or support causes that are important to you? We'd love to hear about it.
SUBMIT A STORYProviding comfort, hope, and confidence to children in urgent need
Subaru and its retailers partner with Operation Warm® to visit local homeless shelters and support agencies to provide children with brand-new necessities like coats, shoes, and socks.
These essential items not only help keep children protected, warm, and dry, they can also have a significant impact on a child’s mental and emotional well-being.
Through this partnership and other historical Subaru Loves to Help efforts, Subaru and retailers like us will have supported over 1 million children and adults in urgent need nationwide.
At Subaru, we believe what we leave behind is a reflection of who we are. That’s why Subaru and our retailers partner with the Arbor Day Foundation (TM) to provide and distribute 100,000 regionally appropriate trees across the country. We’re proud to establish the largest corporate tree distribution ever. Through this and other Subaru Loves the Earth initiatives, Subaru and our retailers have helped distribute and plant over 1.1 million trees.
Subaru believes we should all have a chance to lead a healthy life. That’s why for over 10 years, Subaru and its retailers like us have partnered with Blood Cancer United® and our local hospital to give warm blankets and encouraging messages of hope, written by our employees and customers, to support our community members living with cancer. Through our combined efforts during this partnership, we have supported over 550,000 cancer patients nationwide. Together, we are proud to be Blood Cancer United’s largest automotive donor.
Subaru and its retailers, like us, are continuing our support of education and high-needs schools in our communities through Subaru Loves Learning(R) by providing teachers across the country with funding to purchase the school supplies and resources they know are needed to help students thrive in the classroom. Through our partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, Subaru and its retailers have supported more than 950,000 students nationwide and are proud to be their largest corporate supporter.
Subaru believes all pets deserve a loving home. That's why retailers like us partner with our local animal welfare organization every October to provide direct financial assistance through a grant distributed by the ASPCA® and host pet events to help animals find loving homes. Through our partnership with local and national organizations, Subaru has donated over $70 million, supporting the rescue, adoption, and health of over 700,000 animals. We're proud to be the largest corporate donor to the ASPCA.
Subaru and its retailers believe in giving back to our communities. That's why for every new vehicle sold or leased during the Subaru Share the Love event, Subaru and its retailers, like us, makes a donation to national charities that our owners care about and to over 2,700 local charities where Subaru owners live and work.
Now, after 17 years, Subaru and our retailers have donated nearly $320 million to charity all to give back and to make the world a better place.
Our Love Promise can be seen in various partnerships with local charities and non-profits. We're grateful for the opportunity, not only to be a part of our community, but to serve it as well.
Osceola County Animal Services|Orange County Sheriff's Office K9 Division
One Heart for Woman & Children|Seniors First|Help Now Osceola
Lancaster Elementary|Orange County Public Schools
Arbor Day Foundation
Blood Cancer United|N.O.W Matters More Foundation
Subaru and Sport Subaru South believe in making a positive impact on the communities in which we live and work. We uphold that belief through our Love Promise Community Commitment. Every month, we select inspiring stories from customers and partners from around our area who strive to support our collective commitment and feature them here.
As someone who spends her days tending hydroponic gardens in our showroom and her evenings elbow-deep in soil at home, I can confidently say that March 28, 2026, was one of my favorite days at Sport Subaru South. For the second year running, we partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to provide over 100 native trees to our customers, completely free of charge. But this wasn't just about handing out saplings. It was about connecting with our community over a shared love of growing things and encouraging good stewardship of the earth we all call home. We offered four varieties carefully selected for Central Florida's unique climate: Crape Myrtle, Bald Cypress, Live Oak, and Sweetbay Magnolia. These aren't random choices. Each species thrives in our environment, giving our customers the best possible chance of success. There's nothing more discouraging than planting a tree only to watch it struggle because it wasn't suited for Florida's heat, humidity, and sandy soil. We wanted people to experience the joy of watching their trees flourish, not the frustration of watching them fail. Customers reserved their trees online ahead of time, and when they arrived for pickup, we had them organized and ready to go. Each tree came with a detailed booklet containing care and growing information specific to that species. Planting a tree is just the beginning. Knowing how much water it needs, when to fertilize, and how to protect it during those critical first months makes all the difference between a tree that survives and one that truly thrives. What I loved most about the day was the conversations. As fellow plant lovers showed up to collect their trees, we ended up talking about our gardens, sharing tips, swapping stories about what we're growing at home, and bonding over the universal experience of trying to keep things alive in Florida's intense summer heat. These weren't transactional exchanges. They were genuine connections built on shared passion. One customer brought along a companion I definitely wasn't expecting: a baby goat named Penelope. She was absolutely adorable, and while her owner selected their tree, Penelope got to enjoy some playtime in our dog park. It's not every day you see a goat frolicking around a car dealership, but honestly, it felt perfectly fitting for an event celebrating nature and growth. The gratitude we received throughout the day was heartwarming. People genuinely appreciated not just the free tree, but the thought behind it. They recognized that we'd chosen species that would actually succeed in their yards. They valued the care information we provided. They understood that this wasn't a marketing gimmick but a sincere effort to encourage environmental stewardship in our community. For me personally, this event represents everything I love about working at Sport Subaru South. We're not just selling cars. We're actively investing in our community's relationship with the natural world. From the hydroponic gardens I maintain in our showroom to the compost bin where we transform food scraps into rich soil, to our rainwater collection system, to events like this tree distribution, we're walking the talk when it comes to loving the earth. Subaru's "Loves the Earth" commitment isn't just corporate messaging. It's reflected in real actions that make a tangible difference. Every tree we distributed will spend decades pulling carbon from the atmosphere, providing shade, supporting wildlife, and beautifying our community. That's a legacy worth cultivating. As someone who nurtures plants and watches hydroponic systems flourish daily, I know that growth requires patience, attention, and the right conditions. The same is true for community relationships. By showing up year after year with thoughtful initiatives like this tree distribution, we're cultivating something deeper than customer loyalty. We're growing a community of people who share our values and our commitment to being good stewards of this incredible planet. To everyone who reserved a tree, came to pick it up, shared their gardening stories, and yes, even brought their goat: thank you for being part of this tradition. I can't wait to hear updates about how your trees are doing and to continue these conversations about what we're all growing. Here's to another year of planting roots, both literal and metaphorical, in the Central Florida community we love. - Jalissa S., Administrative Assistant and Self-Proclaimed Plant Lady, Sport Subaru South
There's something profoundly hopeful about a child getting a new pair of shoes. It's not just about footwear. It's about dignity, fresh starts, and the simple joy of choosing something that's truly yours during a time when so much feels uncertain. On January 23, 2026, Sport Subaru South returned to Help Now of Osceola for the second year in partnership with the Subaru Loves to Help initiative and Project Warm. They brought $3,000 worth of shoes and socks for the children in our care, continuing a relationship that demonstrates what genuine community partnership looks like. The team arrived with 132 pairs of athletic and casual shoes spanning every size from toddlers taking their first steps to teenagers navigating the complex journey toward adulthood. The shoes were laid out throughout our space, organized by size, creating a temporary shoe store right here in our shelter. Watching the children's reactions never gets old. Their eyes lit up as they took in the array of options before them. Some of the younger ones were learning to find their shoe size on the chart, carefully matching the numbers and making those important connections. The concentration on their faces as they figured out their size, followed by the excitement of selecting their perfect pair, reminded me why these moments matter so much. For the children who were able to attend the event, getting to choose their own shoes was empowering. In situations where so much has been chosen for them or taken from them, having agency over something as simple as shoe selection carries real weight. The gratitude in their expressions, the careful way they examined their options, and the pride they took in their selections spoke volumes. The remaining shoes were added to our boutique, where current and future residents can access them as needed. This approach recognizes an important reality: children are constantly growing, and families arrive at our shelter at all different times throughout the year. By stocking our boutique, Sport Subaru South ensures that their generosity extends beyond a single day and reaches children who will come to us in the weeks and months ahead. What really matters here is the relief this brings to parents' already strained budgets. When a family arrives at Help Now, they're often fleeing dangerous situations with little more than the clothes on their backs. The financial burden of rebuilding life from scratch is overwhelming. Rent deposits, basic household items, transportation, food, and yes, shoes for growing children all compete for limited resources. By providing quality athletic and casual shoes for 132 children, Sport Subaru South removed one significant expense from these families' budgets. That money can now go toward other critical needs: securing permanent housing, maintaining employment, accessing counseling services, or simply keeping food on the table. These aren't small considerations for families working to rebuild their lives. This is Sport Subaru South's second year partnering with Help Now through the Subaru Loves to Help initiative and Project Warm. That consistency matters deeply. One-time donations are appreciated, but ongoing partnerships signal something different: a sustained commitment to walking alongside survivors as they work toward independence and safety. As Community Engagement Coordinator, I see many generous individuals and organizations support our mission. What distinguishes meaningful partnerships is the willingness to return, to understand the evolving needs of the families we serve, and to recognize that ending domestic violence requires long-term community investment. Sport Subaru South exemplifies this approach. They understand that providing shoes isn't just about footwear. It's about helping children feel normal during abnormal circumstances. It's about removing barriers that prevent families from moving forward. It's about sending a message that this community sees them, values them, and wants them to succeed. To the entire Sport Subaru South team: thank you for understanding that healing happens one step at a time, and sometimes those steps need good shoes. Thank you for seeing the children in our care not through the lens of their trauma, but through the lens of their potential. Thank you for being the kind of partner that shows up year after year. Here's to many more years of walking this journey together.
We are definitely a Subaru family, we bought our first Subaru in 2003, a new 2003 Subaru LL Bean Wagon, we still own this car and it has only 112,000 miles and is maintained regularly. In 2005 we bought a red Baja from a couple who were moving overseas and in 2006 we bought another red Baja to leave at our son's house for when we go up North, we still have both of these Baja's and they both have about 140,000 miles on them. We love all 3 of our cars and get many compliments. We have two of our cars serviced at Sport Subaru South on South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Florida, our service representative is Darlene Deming and our service technician is Sebastian Reyes. Darlene is excellent with suggestions and is always helpful when we have to make decisions about certain repairs, she treats us like family. Sebastian is our serviceman and he is excellent, he loves working on our cars and we couldn't ask for a more caring, observant and conscientious worker. He is the best and takes care of our cars as if they belonged to him. This last time we picked up our car my husband mentioned that he would be 90 years old this year, a few days later I received a call from Darlene saying that she would like to stop by to drop something off for my husband's birthday. On Wednesday, March 4th Darlene, Sebastian, Jeremy and Juan of the Subaru team from Sport Subaru showed up at our house with balloons, a gift bag with Subaru goodies and took pictures of my husband with two of the cars. I can't begin to tell you how much we appreciated the visit and the thoughtfulness that went into this visit. We wanted to recognize these employees of Subaru South and applaud Subaru for hiring employees that care about their customers and are an example of what customer service is all about. We love our Subaru Family and the team that works at Sport Subaru South, they are the best. Thank you for producing such a great cars and for supporting the charities that are so dear to your heart. Sincerely yours, June & Ray Kauffman
At Lancaster Elementary, the start of a new school year is always a mix of excitement and anxiety. We want to give every child the best start possible, but the reality is that many of our families are facing significant hardships. When students walk through our doors without the basic tools they need to learn, it puts them at a disadvantage before the first bell even rings. This year, however, we had a new partner in our corner. For the first time, Sport Subaru South partnered with us to alleviate that burden. In August, they stepped up in a major way, gifting us $5,000 to support our curriculum and providing 10 extensive classroom supply kits. They didn't stop there; they also hosted a community drive in their showroom to collect even more necessities. That initial donation was a game-changer. We estimate the $5,000 alone will impact approximately 210 students, ensuring they have the materials they need to succeed. But what happened next showed us that Sport Subaru South was interested in more than just writing a check—they wanted to understand our world. On September 10, Darlene Deming, Jalissa Scott, Yaya Borrero, Jessica Cisson-Gauvreau, and Jeremy Rowland came to the school to personally deliver the supply kits. It was a wonderful moment of connection, but as we walked the halls and talked, the conversation turned to the challenges our students face outside the classroom. We shared a hard truth with the team: a shockingly high percentage of our students are food insecure. For many, school provides their only guaranteed meals of the day. We have families living in vehicles and hotels, struggling to make ends meet. We mentioned our in-house food pantry, a small but vital resource we try to keep stocked for these emergencies. The reaction from the Sport Subaru South team was immediate. They didn't just listen; they mobilized. Understanding that a hungry child cannot learn, the team went back to the retailer and organized a targeted food drive. They focused specifically on non-perishable, easy-to-cook foods that are practical for families living in transitional housing or hotels. The result was incredible. With help from their community and employees, they were able to fill an entire Subaru Forester with food for Lancaster Elementary students and their families. What started as a partnership to provide pencils and paper evolved into a mission to nourish the whole child. Sport Subaru South proved that they are not just a business in our zip code, but true neighbors who care about the well-being of our students and their families. Thanks to their generosity, our students are better equipped to learn, not just because they have supplies in their desks, but because they have food in their stomachs.
When we think about what it means to be a community partner, Osceola Animal Services comes to mind as one of the most rewarding collaborations we've built. Their team works tirelessly to serve one of Central Florida's largest and most diverse counties, caring for everything from dogs and cats to horses, livestock, and exotic animals. The challenges they face (limited space, stretched resources, and heartbreaking numbers of long-term residents) inspired us to think beyond traditional adoption events. On October 11, 2025, we hosted a "pet adoption party" as part of the Subaru Loves Pets initiative. We brought five adoptable dogs to our dealership, transformed our space with food from the Treehouse Truck, craft Italian sodas and cold brew from Piccolo Coffee Co., professional pet portraits from Woof and Zoom Photography, a prize raffle, and plenty of Subaru swag. More importantly, it gave our community a chance to meet the incredible team at Osceola Animal Services and see the meaningful work they're doing. While none of the dogs went home that day, the connections made were invaluable. People got to know these animals' personalities, and most of those five dogs have since found their forever families. Thanks to the $4,000 grant from Subaru and our dealership, Osceola Animal Services was able to adopt out 33 dogs during October alone. But we knew we could do more. Our team has continued to work with Mileny Robles-Lopez, Program Supervisor at Osceola Animal Services, to create something we call "Dog at the Dealership" days. The concept addresses a specific challenge: long-term shelter residents who get overlooked simply because they've been there too long. We check out one deserving dog for a full day of VIP treatment. This includes a trip to the pet store to pick out toys and treats, a spa-quality bath from our detail team, and then a day at the dealership meeting new people, making friends, and gaining visibility. Our first Dog at the Dealership was Ola, a sweet girl who had spent nearly 200 days at the shelter. On Thursday, October 22, she got her special day with us. By Saturday of that same week, she had found her forever home. That's the power of visibility and a little extra love. We completed our second Dog at the Dealership day in November and plan to continue this tradition as often as possible throughout the year. Each time, we're giving another overlooked animal the chance to shine and find the home they deserve. The impact of this partnership extends beyond the dealership walls. Our own Assistant Service Manager, Darlene Deming, has since adopted a beautiful German Shepherd puppy named Taz from Osceola Animal Services. When your team members are personally invested in the mission, you know you're building something meaningful. This partnership with Osceola Animal Services reflects what we believe at Sport Subaru South: being part of a community means showing up consistently, thinking creatively, and using whatever resources we have to make a real difference. We're not just hosting events or writing checks. We're building relationships and finding solutions together. To Mileny and the entire team at Osceola Animal Services: thank you for trusting us to be part of your mission. Here's to many more adoptions and many more dogs getting their second chance.
Imagine going without a coat, shoes, or even socks. For millions of children and adults experiencing homelessness and other urgent need situations across the country, even here in Orlando, this is a harsh reality. Helping others strengthens communities, which is why Sport Subaru South is partnering with Operation Warm®, a national nonprofit focused on connecting children with the resources they need to thrive. Through this partnership and other Subaru Loves to Help® efforts, Subaru and retailers like Sport Subaru South have helped nearly 900,000 children and adults in urgent need. On 02/21/2025, Sport Subaru South donated 120 shoes/socks to Help Now of Osceola Inc.. These essential items not only help keep children protected, warm, and dry, it can have a significant impact on a child's mental and emotional well-being.
This year's blanket delivery event at Nemours Children's Hospital in Lake Nona provided a powerful reminder of why partnerships like ours with Sport Subaru South through the Subaru Loves to Help initiative make such a meaningful difference in the fight against childhood cancer. For four consecutive years, I've had the privilege of coordinating these deliveries, watching this partnership grow from a generous gesture into something truly transformative for the families we serve. This year, Sport Subaru South provided 80 blankets, 30 comprehensive patient care kits, and $2,500 for our Pediatric Urgent Need Program—resources that directly address the immediate challenges facing families navigating a childhood cancer diagnosis. The patient care kits are thoughtfully assembled with items that bring comfort and distraction during long treatment days: craft supplies to keep young hands busy, sleep masks for rest between procedures, toys that spark joy in sterile environments, cozy socks, water bottles, and other essentials that hospital families often overlook until they're needed most. These seemingly simple items carry enormous emotional weight for children spending weeks or months away from home. But this year's delivery held something extraordinary that I'll never forget. As we were distributing blankets and kits throughout the pediatric oncology unit, we witnessed a young patient ring the bell—that magical moment when a child completes their cancer treatment and celebrates being cancer-free. The entire hallway filled with medical staff, administrators, family, and friends, all gathered to cheer as this brave child walked to the bell with determination and joy. The sound of that bell echoing through the corridors, followed by applause and tears of relief, encapsulated everything our partnership represents. There wasn't a dry eye among us as we watched this child receive gifts, hugs, and well-wishes from the incredible Nemours team who had guided his journey back to health. What made this moment even more meaningful was the presence of Ismael Cerna, a Sales Manager from Sport Subaru South, who attended the delivery this year. Ismael wasn't there just to represent his dealership—he came to personally thank the Nemours staff who had saved his own daughter's life. For the first three years of her life, his daughter was in and out of Nemours Children's Hospital, and he credits their expertise and unwavering care with giving his family their miracle. Watching Ismael express his gratitude to the very nurses and doctors who had cared for his child illuminated the deeply personal connections that drive this partnership. This isn't corporate philanthropy at a distance; it's a community caring for its own. The $2,500 contribution to our Pediatric Urgent Need Program addresses a critical gap in support. When families receive a childhood cancer diagnosis, the financial strain can be devastating. Parents often need to take extended time off work, travel long distances for specialized care, or relocate temporarily to be near treatment centers. Our Urgent Need Program provides emergency financial assistance for housing, transportation, utilities, and other essential expenses that arise during treatment. Through the Subaru Loves to Help initiative, partnerships like ours with Sport Subaru South demonstrate how automotive companies can extend far beyond their traditional role. Subaru's commitment to being more than a car brand resonates throughout their dealership network, enabling local connections that create real impact in communities. As I coordinate these annual deliveries, I'm continually impressed by Sport Subaru South's genuine investment in this cause. They don't simply write a check and move on—they show up, they listen to families, they celebrate victories like bell-ringing ceremonies, and they understand that fighting childhood cancer requires a community effort. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is proud to facilitate this ongoing partnership between Sport Subaru South and Nemours Children's Hospital. Together, we're not just providing blankets and activity kits—we're wrapping children and families in tangible expressions of hope, comfort, and community support during their most challenging moments. Every bell that rings at Nemours represents a victory not just for that child and family, but for all of us working together to ensure that no family faces childhood cancer alone.
The Narcoossee District Pinewood Derby held at Sport Subaru South on April 27, 2025, provided our Scouts with an unforgettable racing experience. As both a Scout leader and father to one of our young racers, I was thrilled to see the dealership's service department transform into the perfect derby venue for our 15 participants. My daughter spent weeks crafting her s'more-themed car, and her creativity paid off when she won the "Most Creative" award. Though she didn't win for speed, she still learned valuable lessons by studying the faster designs. The creativity on display was impressive throughout the derby – including a detailed Lightning McQueen replica that captured everyone's attention. Sport Subaru South's $500 contribution for trophies allowed us to recognize achievements across multiple categories: the three fastest cars, the most creative design, and even the slowest car. This variety of awards taught our Scouts that success takes many forms. The Pinewood Derby isn't just about racing – it's about learning physics, craftsmanship, and sportsmanship simultaneously. Having community partners like Sport Subaru South who provide meaningful venues for these hands-on experiences is invaluable for our troop. The alignment between Scouting values and Subaru's principles makes this partnership natural and effective. Our troop is grateful to Sport Subaru South for hosting this event and helping create lasting memories for our Scouts and their families.
There are moments in the journey of a nonprofit organization that take your breath away—moments when you witness the true power of community coming together to support those in need. On April 24, 2025, I, Stephanie Bowman, Founder of One Heart for Women and Children, experienced one of those profound moments when the team at Sport Subaru South presented our organization with a check for $55,256 from their 2024 Share the Love Event. As I stood in their showroom, surrounded by the Sport Subaru South team, including General Manager Josh Snell and Owner Jay Mealey, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude. This wasn't just a donation—it was a lifeline for the more than 20,000 individuals who walk through our doors each month seeking food, clothing, and hope. The timing of this gift couldn't have been more crucial. With recent cuts to federal and state assistance programs, One Heart has been operating at a deficit while simultaneously experiencing increased demand for our services. Every day, I see the faces of mothers making impossible choices between paying rent and feeding their children. I meet families who have suddenly found themselves homeless after a job loss or medical emergency. I welcome individuals seeking to rebuild their lives after escaping domestic violence or overcoming addiction. What makes this donation particularly special is knowing it represents thousands of individual choices. From November 15, 2024, to January 2, 2025, Sport Subaru South customers were given an option: direct their Share the Love contribution to a national charity or keep their support local through One Heart. Overwhelmingly, they chose us—they chose their neighbors, their community, their Orlando. Each new vehicle sale or lease generated a $325 donation, impacting 13 local Orlando families, while every service order contributed $10, helping us provide essentials for a family of 4 for a week. Behind each of those transactions was a person who said, "I want to help families right here in Central Florida." That collective compassion resulted in our largest Share the Love contribution yet. The relationship between One Heart and Sport Subaru South spans 12 years, predating even some of our current programs. The Mealey family and their team have stood beside us through expansions, challenges, and transformations. They've witnessed our growth from a small grassroots effort to an organization that now provides over 1.5 million pounds of food annually to Central Florida families in need. These funds will go directly toward securing food and essential supplies for our clients. They will stock our food pantry shelves with nutritious options. They will ensure our community closet has hygiene products, diapers, and household necessities. But perhaps most importantly, these funds send a powerful message to those we serve: you are not forgotten. Together, we are Ending Hunger. Empowering Hope. Building Community. At One Heart, we often say that we're not just meeting immediate needs—we're breaking cycles of poverty and building pathways to self-sufficiency. Support like this from Sport Subaru South and their customers makes this holistic approach possible. To Jay, Josh, and the entire Sport Subaru South team: thank you for choosing to share your love with One Heart. And to every customer who directed their donation our way: your choice will nourish families, create stability, and foster hope throughout our community. Together, we truly are proving that One Heart can make a difference.
There's something special about planting a tree. It's an act of hope—a belief that the small sapling placed in the ground today will grow to provide shade, beauty, and environmental benefits for generations to come. On Saturday, April 5, Sport Subaru South had the privilege of sharing this experience with over 100 customers through their first-ever native tree distribution event in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation. The morning was perfect for the drive-through pickup: sunny with a light breeze that seemed to whisper, "Take me home and plant me!" Customers who had reserved their trees through the dealership's online portal arrived to find a friendly team ready to help. Jalissa Scott, Celeste Vazquez, Sommer Simoneaux, and Jeremy Rowland greeted each person with smiles and enthusiasm, matching reservation names to the perfect Crape Myrtle or Sweetbay Magnolia. Many customers expressed excitement about adding native plants to their yards without any cost, making it easier to enhance their gardens while supporting local ecosystems. Each tree came with a personalized reservation tag featuring a QR code linking to specific planting and care instructions. The dealership also surprised customers with packets of Florida native wildflower seeds—a perfect complement to their new trees and an invitation for beneficial pollinators to visit their gardens. While this tree distribution was Sport Subaru South's first collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation, it represents a natural extension of their ongoing environmental commitments. At the dealership, sustainability isn't just a seasonal event; it's woven into their daily operations. Visitors stepping into the showroom notice something unusual for a car dealership: thriving hydroponic gardens. These living installations do more than beautify the space; they're active reminders of the dealership's commitment to the "Subaru Loves the Earth" initiative. Throughout the year, the team grows microgreens like daikon radish, purple cabbage, broccoli, and sunflowers, harvesting and sharing them with customers who visit. Behind the scenes, the environmental efforts continue. A robust composting system turns food scraps, yard waste, and spent microgreen trays into rich, nutrient-dense soil instead of sending them to landfills. They've diverted hundreds of pounds of organic matter from waste streams, transforming it into a resource that nurtures new growth. Around back, visitors can find a rainwater collection system, capturing Florida's abundant rainfall for sustainable irrigation. Throughout the day, returning customers who initially purchased their vehicles at Sport Subaru South years ago and continue to choose the dealership for service shared their appreciation. Many mentioned that the seasonal growing activities and now the tree initiative have strengthened their connection to the dealership beyond just automotive needs. These initiatives might seem unusual for a car dealership, but they reflect the core values that Subaru owners have come to appreciate. Sport Subaru South's customers aren't just looking for reliable transportation; they're seeking a relationship with a company that shares their values and commitment to protecting the natural world. For the team at Sport Subaru South, these environmental initiatives aren't just good business; they're expressions of an authentic connection to the community and the planet. The "Subaru Loves the Earth" pillar of the Love Promise reflects their understanding that Subaru drivers often share a passion for outdoor adventure and environmental stewardship. Whether someone is a long-time Subaru owner or considering their first purchase, Sport Subaru South invites them to experience the difference at the dealership. Visitors can stop by to check out the latest vehicles, pick up some fresh microgreens, get gardening tips, or just chat about their latest outdoor adventure. After all, Sport Subaru South isn't just selling cars; they're growing a community rooted in shared values and a love for the earth that sustains us all.
At Sport Subaru South, our commitment to education goes beyond supplying classroom materials—it extends to celebrating the achievements of young minds as they develop critical thinking and communication skills. Our four-year partnership with Endeavor Elementary School through the Subaru Loves Learning initiative reached a new milestone on February 21, 2025, when we had the honor of participating in their annual 4th/5th grade oration competition. Jeremy Rowland, our head of community partnerships, joined representatives from L3 Harris and the Florida charter school system to judge this inspiring showcase of young talent. The panel evaluated ten remarkable students who courageously stood before their peers and delivered compelling two-minute speeches on topics ranging from equity in education and food waste to air travel, baseball, and the impactful story of Bessie Smith. The judging criteria were comprehensive and designed to develop well-rounded communication skills. Students were evaluated on their eye contact, audience engagement, opening argument strength, diction, pronunciation, organization, structure, grammar, and overall delivery. As each young orator took the stage, their preparation and passion were evident, making the judges' decision incredibly challenging. Among the standout performances were three exceptional speeches that ultimately claimed the top positions. The winning presentations—focusing on equity in education, food waste, and the story of Bessie Smith—demonstrated remarkable research, thoughtful analysis, and confident delivery that belied the speakers' young ages. These talented students will now advance to represent Endeavor Elementary at state and national levels. For Sport Subaru South, this judging opportunity represents the evolution of our partnership with Endeavor Elementary. Since 2021, we have contributed $15,320 to support 28 classrooms, provided 12 supply kits, and positively impacted 766 students. In 2024 alone, our donations of $3,720 supported 6 classrooms and 186 students with essential learning resources. Watching these young orators articulate complex ideas with such poise reminded us why educational partnerships matter. Each confident stance, well-researched point, and thoughtful conclusion represented not just individual achievement, but the cumulative impact of community support, dedicated teachers, and opportunities for growth. As these students continue to develop their voices and prepare to represent their school at higher levels of competition, Sport Subaru South remains committed to our partnership with students and educators in our community. We believe that by supporting education today, we're helping to develop the thoughtful, articulate leaders of tomorrow—one classroom, one speech, one student at a time.
At Help Now of Osceola, every journey toward healing and independence begins with a single step. This February, those steps became a little easier thanks to the compassion and generosity of Sport Subaru South. On February 21, 2025, the Sport Subaru South team arrived at Help Now's facility with an extraordinary gift—$3,000 worth of new shoes and socks, provided through a special partnership with Subaru of America and Project Warm. This thoughtful donation addressed a critical but often overlooked need for survivors of domestic violence and abuse. During the visit, the Sport Subaru South team had the opportunity to tour our facility and witnessing firsthand the life-changing work happening within its walls. One particularly touching moment came when children at the shelter had the opportunity to size their feet and select their very own new shoes—a simple joy that brought smiles and excitement during a challenging time in their lives. Help Now of Osceola has been a beacon of hope in the community since 1983, offering comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence. Our mission extends far beyond emergency shelter, providing a full spectrum of support including a 24-hour crisis hotline, safety planning, counseling, and legal advocacy. Our trauma-informed approach ensures that survivors—women, children, and men alike—receive the specialized care they need to rebuild their lives. Understanding that recovery is an ongoing process, Sport Subaru South contributed an additional $500 to assist with Help Now's daily operational expenses. While the shoes and socks were distributed to approximately 20 residents present that day, the remainder were added to Help Now's "boutique," where current and future residents can access these essential items free of charge as needed. During their visit, the Sport Subaru South team had the chance to connect with Help Now's dedicated staff, hearing powerful stories about the organization's impact and learning about the resources they need to continue their vital work. These conversations deepened the partnership between the organizations and reinforced the importance of community support for those experiencing domestic violence. For Help Now of Osceola, which serves hundreds of survivors annually throughout Osceola County, donations like these represent more than just material goods—they symbolize community solidarity and reinforce to survivors that they are not alone on their journey. Sport Subaru South's Love Promise comes to life through partnerships like these—not just through donations, but through genuine engagement with organizations making a difference in Central Florida. By supporting Help Now of Osceola, they've taken meaningful steps toward creating a safer, more compassionate community where survivors can walk confidently toward brighter futures. Thank you, Sport Subaru South.
At One Heart for Women and Children, we witness both the struggles and triumphs of Central Florida families every day. This holiday season, our longtime community partner Sport Subaru South transformed their dealership into Santa's workshop, bringing light and joy to countless children in need. Throughout the 2024 holiday season, Sport Subaru South orchestrated a toy drive that captured the true spirit of giving. Their bright red Subaru Crosstrek, affectionately dubbed the "sleigh," became a beacon of hope as it filled to the brim with over 500 new toys for children of all ages. This incredible collection was made possible through the combined generosity of Sport Subaru South's team members, their caring customers, and their dedicated community partners. Jeremy Rowland, head of community partnerships, and Jess Cisson-Gauvreau from their Love Promise team personally delivered this treasure trove of toys to our center on December 16th. But their generosity didn't stop there – Sport Subaru South demonstrated their commitment to our community's well being with an additional $5,000 donation, further strengthening their support of our mission to serve local families in need. In Central Florida, where One Heart serves approximately 20,000 people monthly, these contributions represent more than just gifts and funds – they represent hope, joy, and the reminder that our community cares. For children facing challenges beyond their years, these presents offered a moment of pure childhood happiness during the holiday season, while the monetary donation will help ensure we can continue providing essential services to families throughout the year. Sport Subaru South's "Love Promise" isn't just a commitment on paper – it's a living, breathing example of how local businesses can make a meaningful difference in their community. Their dedication to turning their "sleigh" into a vehicle of joy, coupled with their substantial financial support, exemplifies the spirit of giving that makes our community stronger. We at One Heart for Women and Children are profoundly grateful for partners like Sport Subaru South, who help us continue our mission of serving those in need throughout Central Florida. Together, we're not just delivering toys and support – we're delivering hope, one family at a time.
The universe rarely drops an endangered gopher tortoise in front of your dealership, but as Sport Subaru South just found out — it happens. On his way into work, finance manager David Santiago spotted a tortoise trying to cross six lanes of traffic in the chaotic Orlando morning rush. Fortunately for both the tortoise and Florida wildlife conservation efforts, David pulled over, waved off traffic, and rescued the wayward reptile. Unsure of what to do next, or even what species he'd found, David brought the tortoise across the street and secured it in Sport Subaru South's gated dog park. The gopher tortoise is one of the oldest living species on the planet and the only native North American tortoise species found east of the Mississippi River. They are considered a "keystone" species, with their elaborate burrows supporting the well-being of at least 300 other Florida species — many of which are rare and endangered themselves. These remarkable creatures have long fought a losing battle against rapid development and habitat loss in Central Florida. After coordinating with rescue operations, including Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Sport's team connected with my rescue operation, Swamp Girl Adventures, which saved nearly 400 gopher tortoises in 2024 alone. Vehicle strikes are the top killers of the species, so we were thrilled to see another one saved! After reviewing satellite imagery of the area around Sport Subaru South, it was clear that this was a waif tortoise that had little chance of survival in the rapidly shrinking habitat around the dealership. More importantly, as a female, she would likely never have the opportunity to find a mate and do her part to preserve this incredible species. The tortoise, nicknamed 'Subie' by the dealership team, was approved to go to a waif recipient site and will play a role in a reintroduction program. For now, she has been introduced to a temperature-controlled holding area where she will be monitored and cared for until her official release into her new habitat this Spring. Our hope is that she will be instrumental in repopulating this new habitat and will help to reverse the 80% decline these amazing creatures have seen over the past 100 years. At the very least, she'll have the opportunity to live a long and happy life in her new, much quieter home. Thank you to David for braking for tortoises, and to Sport Subaru South for bringing her to us and helping to pay for relocation costs. For more information about Central Florida's reptiles and rehabilitation resources, visit swampgirladventures.org.
At Sport Subaru South, we’re always ready to step up and support our communities, especially in times of crisis. This commitment is at the heart of the Subaru Love Promise®. When Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated the Eastern region, Subaru retailers like us immediately sprang into action. Alongside other Subaru retailers, Subaru of America, and local organizations, we assessed the most urgent needs in the affected areas. It quickly became clear that local food banks were struggling to keep up with the surge in demand as they worked to support people hit hardest by the storms. In response, we teamed up with 67 Subaru retailers across the region to launch a $400,000 match campaign to aid the hurricane relief efforts of Feeding America®. Sport Subaru South proudly contributed $5000 to this initiative. While the immediate impact of the storms fades from the headlines, many of our neighbors continue to face long-term challenges like food insecurity, water shortages, power outages, and limited access to essential services. Thanks to the collective generosity of Subaru retailers and the communities we serve, an additional $18,427 was raised. This brings the total impact to $418,427, or over 4,100,000 meals for those in need. "As one of the nation's largest disaster relief organizations, the Feeding America network of food banks and partner agencies is deeply rooted in communities across the country. Together, our partnership with trusted Subaru dealers has helped expedite emergency food assistance and supplies to people who need it most. We are immensely grateful," said Feeding America Chief Development Officer Casey Marsh.
You know that look—the one your dog gives you, with those big, hopeful eyes, every time you reach for your keys, as if to say, “Can I come too?” Well, in a perfect world, you’d never get that look, because dogs would always go where we go, and we’d all be better off. However, the harsh reality is that our four-legged friends often get left behind. Fortunately, businesses like Sport Subaru South recognize that sometimes, especially when servicing your vehicle, it’s nice to bring your best friend along for the ride. To that end, they recently installed a vibrant new dog park for their two- and four-legged patrons! The nearly 400-square-foot, fenced-in and covered dog park is built into the side of their existing building and offers realistic artificial turf, misting fans (because, Florida), custom play structures, a tug-of-war station, fresh drinking water, and all the tennis balls a dog’s heart could desire. Adding to the park’s personality, Sport Subaru South commissioned local artist Akyros (Harry Foreman) to create a wall mural representing Subaru’s love for people, pets, and adventure while showcasing Central Florida’s thriving community and expansive wildlife. The result is a veritable explosion of color and creativity that perfectly captures the wild and quirky spirit of Sport Subaru South and the region they serve. From a frog wearing a mushroom hat to oranges sporting sunglasses and nods to the Subaru Love Promise Pillars, something new seems to reveal itself with every look. For Sport Subaru South, it’s not just about creating a place for pets; it’s about building a space that strengthens the bond between people and their furry family members. And for the community, it’s a reminder that car dealerships can be more than just places to buy and service cars—they can be places to connect. “We’ve always welcomed pets to our dealership, but we wanted to create a space where pets and people could interact, stretch their legs, and maybe even make a few friends.” said Sport Subaru South General Manager, Josh Snell. The new dog park was officially launched at Subaru South’s “Pet Appreciation Party” on October 26, 2024, in collaboration with their community partner, Poodle and Pooch Pet Rescue of Florida. Dealership patrons, pet rescue volunteers, and members of the community came together over great food, music, pet grooming, and free fall-themed pet portraits to meet other pet parents and learn more about foster and adoption opportunities right here in Central Florida. In addition to the event, Sport Subaru South and Subaru of America provided a $4,000 grant to Poodle and Pooch Pet Rescue. Since 2008, PPR has rescued nearly 6,000 dogs that have been passed over by adopters and other rescue groups due to age, health, or neglect. These funds will be used to further their mission of rescuing Florida’s “leftover” dogs. Looking forward, the team at Sport Subaru South is excited to use the new park to its full potential, with adoption and dog training events, pet meetups, and simply the regular opportunity to sneak off and unwind with some doggy snuggles during the workday.
The Poodle and Pooch dogs-in-need and the people who love them look forward to celebrating with Subaru each October. This year's event was bigger and better than ever, and there was something for everyone. Mealey Sport Subaru South created an awesome dog park with agility equipment, astroturf and a beautiful mural. This was a perfect playground for pups and an ideal backdrop for photos. Another photographer had a dedicated area to capture pet portraits with seasonal Fall flair. So that all the pups would look their best, we had a mobile groomer, offering free nail trims. Some attendees took home brochures, others left donations, and one fell hard for Abby the Cocker Spaniel, and decided to become a Foster Mom! We welcomed first-time volunteers from Lake Nona High School, and some of our older special-needs residents. One of our most famous alumni, Gus, paid a visit to inspire our currently adoptable dogs. Dogs and humans of all sizes had a blast making new friends. And amidst all the meet-and-greets, there were some awesome eats! The Knot Food Truck offered up deliciously satisfying mouth-watering garlic knot sliders. The day wrapped up with alumni PPR doggo Herman, getting in his brand new Subaru! Thank you Mealey’s Sport Subaru South, for your continued support and hosting the best event yet!
At The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), we know that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on patients and families facing cancer. This past June, our friends at Sport Subaru South once again went above and beyond to show their unwavering support for children undergoing treatment at Nemours Children’s Hospital. For the past four years, Sport Subaru South has stood by our side, partnering with both LLS and Nemours to spread warmth and hope to young patients. This year was no different—they delivered 80 cozy blankets, 10 patient care kits, and a $2,500 donation to the LLS Urgent Need Pediatric Program. These funds will directly support children and their families in Florida who are facing financial barriers to accessing life-saving treatments. We truly appreciated that employees from Sport Subaru South took the time to personally visit Nemours and hand out these gifts. Seeing firsthand how much the blankets and messages meant to the children and their families was a moving experience. The smiles shared in those moments were priceless—a reminder that small gestures can provide tremendous comfort during difficult times. We at LLS are incredibly grateful for the continued partnership with Sport Subaru South and Subaru of America. Their compassion and dedication inspire us year after year, and we’re honored to have them as part of our mission to end blood cancers. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of young patients and their families, one warm blanket and message of hope at a time. Thank you, Sport Subaru South, for reminding us that love truly can make a difference—and for bringing that love to the children at Nemours when they need it most. With gratitude, Alexis Clement The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society®
At Sport Subaru South, the commitment to community engagement and environmental sustainability has taken root—literally. The Orlando-based Subaru retailer has transformed its showroom into a vibrant hub of horticultural activity, fostering a love of gardening and promoting the benefits of growing fresh produce. Central to this green initiative is the installation of a hydroponic garden tower, a striking vertical structure that efficiently grows a variety of herbs and vegetables without soil. Adjacent to the tower stands a small greenhouse, bustling with the cultivation of nutrient-rich microgreens. A propagation station nearby nurtures new plants, while a rainwater harvesting system ensures sustainable watering practices. To complete the cycle, a compost bin recycles food scraps and plant waste, enriching the soil for future growth. This verdant transformation isn't just for show. According to, Jalissa Scott, Sport Subaru South's "Head Gardener", "We want to spread a love of gardening and encourage others to try their hand at growing their own food. By bringing these elements into our showroom, we hope to inspire our customers and community to appreciate the joys and benefits of gardening." In a generous gesture, the fresh produce and propagated plants are shared with customers at no charge. This initiative not only provides a unique customer experience but also underscores Sport Subaru South's dedication to community well-being. And this is just the beginning. The dealership has plans to further deepen its community engagement through special workshops, plant sales, and more. These events aim to educate and inspire people of all ages to embrace gardening, highlighting its environmental and health benefits. Sport Subaru South's innovative approach to combining business with environmental stewardship and community service sets a shining example. As they continue to cultivate their garden and their community, the team at Sport Subaru South proves that with a bit of green, great things can grow.
I'm thrilled to share a heartwarming story of community, compassion, and commitment. This past January, we hosted the annual charity 5K Run and 1 Mile Doggie Dash at Front Running Sports in Lake Mary. This event wasn't just about fitness and fun; it was a beacon of hope and support for the many animals in our care. The highlight of this gathering was the remarkable generosity of Sport Subaru South. In a touching display of support and solidarity with our mission, they presented Pet Rescue by Judy with a substantial donation of $25,000. This generous donation from Sport Subaru South will fuel several critical initiatives at our rescue. Primarily, these funds will help cover medical expenses for the animals, many of whom arrive needing significant medical attention. Additionally, the donation will support our ongoing community education programs, which aim to teach pet owners and the public about proper animal care, the importance of spaying and neutering, and how to prevent animals from needing to be rescued in the first place. Sport Subaru South’s commitment goes beyond a single event; they have been a long-standing partner in our journey to protect and provide for animals in need. Their support not only aids in immediate animal care but also strengthens our efforts to foster a more informed and compassionate community. We are deeply grateful to Sport Subaru South for their continued partnership and to all who participated in the charity run. Together, we are making strides towards a future where every animal receives the love and care they deserve. As we move forward, we remain committed to our mission, bolstered by the support of our community and partners like Subaru, who help us promise a better life for our furry friends.
In the heart of the community served by Sport Subaru South, a beacon of warmth and compassion emerged through their partnership with Clarita's House, a local organization dedicated to providing shelter and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Sport Subaru South's commitment to the Subaru Love Promise was brought to life through their Operation Warm Initiative, an ambitious effort to provide essential warmth and comfort to those in need during the cold winter months. The initiative began with a simple yet powerful idea: to donate brand-new winter coats to the beneficiaries of Clarita's House efforts, ensuring that they could stay safe and warm throughout the chilly season. Recognizing the urgent need for such assistance, Sport Subaru South wasted no time in mobilizing their resources and rallying their community to support this worthy cause. Through a coordinated outreach effort, Sport Subaru South collected donations from employees, customers, as well as a portion of their proceeds, demonstrating the profound impact that can be achieved when individuals come together with a shared sense of purpose and compassion. As the donations poured in, the team at Sport Subaru South worked tirelessly to organize the distribution of the winter coats to Clarita's House, ensuring that each resident received a coat tailored to their size and preferences. Their dedication and attention to detail exemplified the unwavering commitment of Sport Subaru South to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Beyond just providing coats, Sport Subaru South joined the Clarita’s House initiative, helping to host a special event for the beneficiaries, where people were treated to food and companionship in a welcoming and supportive environment. This gesture of kindness and hospitality exemplified the true spirit of the Subaru Love Promise, showing that compassion knows no bounds. The impact of the Operation Warm Initiative was felt far and wide, as the residents of Clarita's House expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the generous donation. For many, the new winter coats provided not only physical warmth but also a sense of dignity and hope during a challenging time. As the winter months passed and the days grew warmer, the impact of Sport Subaru South's Operation Warm Initiative continued to resonate within the community, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of love, generosity, and solidarity. In partnering with Clarita's House, Sport Subaru South reaffirmed their commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those most in need, one act of kindness at a time.
In a heartwarming display of community spirit and collaboration, Sport Subaru South in Orlando, Florida, recently orchestrated a unique event that brought smiles to both two-legged and four-legged members of the Orange County community. Over the summer of 2023, the dealership embarked on an innovative "service swap" promotion, inviting customers to bring a new dog toy to their service appointment in exchange for a 10% discount on their service. The result? An impressive collection of over 100 new dog toys, all earmarked for the Orange County Sheriff's Department K9 unit. The presentation day turned into a small celebration at the dealership, attended by officers and support staff from the department, along with five of their K9 officers: Roscoe, Pegasus, Baxter, Beta, and Saffron. These furry heroes were the guests of honor, eagerly sniffing and inspecting their new toys. Sport Subaru South's initiative wasn't just about collecting toys; it was about fostering a sense of community and showing support for the invaluable work done by the K9 unit. The toys are set to play a crucial role in the training and enrichment of the service dogs, aiding in their development and operational effectiveness. The event underscored the dealership's commitment to going beyond the norm in its community engagement efforts. However, it was the collective effort of customers and team members alike that truly made the initiative a success. By participating in the promotion, the community not only enjoyed a discount on their vehicle service but also contributed to a cause that supports local law enforcement and their canine partners. While the focus of the event was on supporting the K9 unit, it also highlighted the strong ties between Sport Subaru South and the local community. The dealership's initiative serves as a reminder of the impact that businesses can have when they leverage their resources and networks for the greater good. This story, though specific to Sport Subaru South, reflects a broader narrative of businesses playing a pivotal role in their communities. It's a reminder that simple acts of generosity and collaboration can have a profound impact, strengthening bonds and supporting those who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.
Through our partnership with Sport Subaru South, we were excited to be able to host another adoption event during the month of October. Being able to use the grant funds to prepare medically needy dogs for adoption allowed us to bring 11 adoptable dogs to the dealership and as a result of the event, Poodle and Pooch Rescue (PPR) and Sport Subaru South helped 26 dogs find their perfect, loving home in the month of October! We had a really cool "Happy Tails" story at this year's event: Lila and Rebekah lost one of their dogs last month, and their dog Ajax was grieving for his fur sister, so they wanted to find a new companion for him. They just so happened to buy 2 Subarus recently from Sport Subaru South, and while they were at the dealership the Subaru folks told them about our upcoming event. They were looking at our web site to see the dogs we had up for adoption when they ran across Coco's listing. They thought she might be a good fit for them so they came to the event hoping to meet her. Luckily she was there, and Ajax and Coco liked each other right away when they met. Rebekah and Lila just happened to think Coco was pretty special too and based on her bio they thought she'd be a good fit for their family and the rest is history! Coco was adopted and has a new big fenced in back yard to run around in, a playful fur brother who will probably become her best friend and 2 Subarus to go on adventures in! Thanks to Tony DeViva & team from Sport Subaru South, the event allowed us to get our volunteers together, meet potential adopters, feature our adoptable dogs and educate people on Poodle and Pooch’s mission of saving dogs in need.
A remarkable alliance between Cub Scout Pack 42 and Sport Subaru South flourished, bringing forth a tale of community bonds and environmental stewardship. Through the • Subaru Love Promise®, we embarked on a remarkable journey, leaving a notable impact on our beloved Southport Community Park. As the sun painted the sky with hues of a beautiful Florida sunset, Cub Scout Pack 42 members, parents, and kind-hearted volunteers gathered at the park with a shared mission. Armed with gloves, trash bags, and an unbreakable spirit of unity, we knew we were part of something extraordinary – a chance to preserve our cherished park and make it even more inviting for everyone. Sport Subaru South's connection with our pack was immediate and profound, fueled by a mutual love for nature and an unwavering dedication to our community. As the proud sponsor of our park cleanup, they equipped us with vital supplies, including gloves, trash bags, and refreshments that kept us fueled and focused throughout the day. Our event mirrored the very essence of the Subaru Love Promise – a pledge to show kindness and compassion to all, initiate positive transformations, and safeguard the environment. Shoulder to shoulder, we confronted litter and debris, breathing new life into park trails, play areas, and gathering spots. Amidst shared laughter and stories, we formed lasting memories and etched a legacy that our community would remember. Through this partnership with Sport Subaru South, we aimed to nurture in our young scouts a sense of accountability for the world around them. These experiences serve as building blocks, shaping them into compassionate individuals committed to the well-being of their community and the planet. Embedded in the Subaru Love Promise is the belief that even the smallest actions can yield significant change. Our joint effort with Sport Subaru South at Southport Community Park epitomized this truth, showcasing the power of unity and the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their environment. Our pledge goes beyond events; it's about fostering connections and forging a sense of togetherness that benefits all. As the day drew to a close, the park radiated renewed vibrancy, mirroring the smiles and contentment of all who were part of this incredible journey. The Subaru Love Promise is not just words; it's a commitment fulfilled through actions that fortify communities, foster relationships, and create a positive legacy. Through events like our park cleanup, we reaffirm our dedication to this promise, eagerly anticipating more collaborations in the years ahead. Cub Scout Pack 42 is profoundly grateful for this experience, extending our heartfelt thanks to Sport Subaru South, our dedicated volunteers, and the Southport Community Park for allowing us to contribute to our shared haven. Together, we enact change that transcends the boundaries of a single day, leaving an imprint that will be cherished for generations.
Our annual Pinewood Derby tournament, a staple in our scouting calendar, is an opportunity for our intrepid young Scouts to showcase their creativity, craftsmanship, and understanding of physics through their homemade Pinewood Derby cars. This year's tournament took place at the Dezerland theme park in Orlando, Florida, drawing Scouts from around Central Florida for a day of learning, camaraderie, and friendly competition. Parents, friends, and siblings were all present to cheer the racers on! The Eagle Empire District Central Florida Council Boy Scouts would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Sport Subaru South, who partnered with us to help fund this year's tournament and provided invaluable support for the day's festivities. Their commitment to local youth development beautifully aligns with our scouting ideals. We're so grateful for their contribution, which ensures the Pinewood Derby tradition continues to thrive in Central Florida.
This year's Heart Skate event brought together a diverse community in an exciting and vibrant atmosphere atop the parking garage of Lake Nona's Wave Hotel. Attendees were treated to a thrilling rollerskating rink, mouthwatering food trucks, captivating live music, and an exclusive VIP lounge, creating an unforgettable experience for people of all ages. Sport Subaru South played a vital role in bringing Heart Skate to life by generously providing funding for the event. Their commitment to supporting the American Heart Association's mission to improve heart health and prevent cardiovascular diseases is truly commendable. Through their sponsorship, Sport Subaru South demonstrated their dedication to making a positive impact on the local community and helping to save lives. The American Heart Association extends its deepest gratitude to Sport Subaru South for their invaluable contribution to the success of the Heart Skate event. Their partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration in making a real difference in the fight against cardiovascular diseases.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Subaru of America and Sport Subaru South for their incredible donation of over 500 pairs of socks. Their act of kindness provides warmth, comfort, and dignity to individuals facing challenging circumstances. Through their example, they inspire us all to take action, make a difference, and create a community where no one is left behind. Together, we can continue to transform lives and work towards a brighter future for everyone.
At One Heart for Women and Children, we are thrilled to share the incredible success of our recent charity golf tournament, "One Heart On Fire," held in Orlando, Florida. This event not only brought the community together for a day of sport and camaraderie but also made a significant impact on the lives of women, children, and families in need. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our sponsor, Sport Subaru South, whose support and dedication have been instrumental in making this event a resounding success. Sport Subaru South has been an invaluable partner of One Heart for Women and Children for many years, consistently demonstrating their commitment to improving the lives of those less fortunate in our community. Their ongoing support has enabled us to expand our programs and reach even more individuals in need. We are truly grateful for their deep-rooted partnership, which has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless families.
The NOW Matters More Foundation is excited to share a tremendous success story from our recently concluded 9th Annual NOW Matters More Golf Tournament. This year, the tournament was graciously sponsored in part by Sport Subaru South, a longstanding philanthropic partner. This generous contribution helped us to host the tournament and further our mission to provide support for individuals battling addiction and to enhance awareness about the disease. Established in 2011, the NOW Matters More Foundation is committed to helping individuals struggling with addiction find the necessary resources for recovery. Our annual golf tournament serves as a pivotal fundraising event to raise vital funds to further this mission. Sport Subaru South's sponsorship of the 9th Annual NOW Matters More Golf Tournament was instrumental in the event's success. With their generosity, we were able to surpass our fundraising goals, securing significant resources that will directly benefit individuals and families coping with addiction. Proceeds from the tournament directly fund programs and resources to assist individuals and families affected by addiction. Through these efforts, we continue our mission to educate the public about addiction, promote prevention, and provide immediate access to treatment options. We sincerely thank Sport Subaru South for their ongoing support and dedication to our cause. We are excited to continue this partnership and are eager to see what we can accomplish together in the future. For more information about the NOW Matters More Foundation, our mission, and upcoming events, visit www.nowmattersmore.org.
I would like to sincerely thank you for your assistance with my car-buying experience yesterday. It was a true “stars aligning” experience..... That being said, I would like to point out some of your excellent employees in the process for their customer service. From the decision to purchase after test drives to the time, we received the keys and were driving off was about 45-50 min including a trade-in, this is well less than half the time of my previous experiences and is extremely notable and admirable. I felt like we were in a Formula 1 race with a well-oiled pit crew. Justin Moore and Celeste Vazquez greeted me at the door and asked how they could help, I let them know I had done my research and identified several vehicles I would like to look at that would work for our family of four. They immediately looked everything up and identified the sites they were at and quickly took off to drive them over to Sport Subaru and Superstore on OBT. We let them know that we were aware of closing time and that if things worked out, we would be prepared to make a purchase today if the terms were acceptable. They were both courteous and friendly and knowledgeable about the different vehicles and went out of their way to make us comfortable with the decision. They have excellent professionalism and people skills, and I must say if they had a medical degree, I would love to hire both of them to work in my hospital. Given the research we did previously and given the quality of the offerings you had and the transparent price on the internet, we informed them we were ready to purchase a new vehicle if they could do this efficiently at a little after 4 pm given I was also ready to trade in our old vehicle if the price was fair and they very efficiently gave us the researched price we saw and we proceeded. While Celeste was preparing the vehicle and putting gas and detailing, David Santiago then met us following the insurance transfer on the phone which took 13 min. He was fantastic and by this point, we did relay the communications from you through Julie and let them know what you shared with us. David has obviously been doing this for years and he was efficient and professional which was very appreciated, and we not only completed the purchase but also an extended warranty during this time. By the time we were done Celeste and Justin had the car ready and it was not only sparkling but had the wonderful new car scent throughout and we drove off a few minutes after five. While being so excited, I learned when I got back home that I not only forgot my sticker for the gate entrance to my community in Lake Nona stuck on the car but also my garage door opener and lake access tag hanging from the rear-view mirror. Celeste was kind and super helpful today in securing these items for me and communicating throughout the day and I picked up everything tonight which saved me a lot of time going forward. In summary, as with all great things in life, this was a great team effort long in the making before today with the stars aligning. I am very grateful for the service and friendship you have given to my dear friend Julie which in turn led to this opportunity in which your team and the members above truly shined in an experience which is not always smooth for many and has not been smooth in my history. I am forever grateful for what you have done for Central Florida with your successful expanding business as hopefully Julie and I have done for pediatric healthcare. I appreciate you going above and beyond in this situation, and I am sure this is a standard you live by given your success and growth, and the quality I observed over the last 30 hours. Thank you for all you do, it truly makes a difference. With Deep Gratitude, Craig
Through our partnership with Sport Subaru South, we hosted an adoption event during the month of October. We brought 12 adoptable dogs to the dealership and as a result of the event, Poodle and Pooch Rescue (PPR) and Sport Subaru South helped 31 dogs find their perfect, loving home in the month of October. Thanks to Tony DeViva from Sport Subaru South, we were able to bring our volunteers together, meet potential adopters, show off our adoptable dogs and educate the public on Poodle and Pooch’s mission. Subaru's focus on 'Underdogs' really aligns with PPR's mission to Save the Leftovers. We rescue the “leftovers” from animal control, the dogs nobody wants because they’re older or suffer from neglect, abuse or have a medical need. Thank you, Subaru, for your support!
Accelerated Reader guides students, while the engaging quizzes and activities help to hone students' reading skills with authentic practice—encouraging growth. From recognizing students' achievements to students discovering new interests, Accelerated Reader helps create a culture of reading through choice. Students who read more perform better in all their academic coursework and Ms. April from Endeavor Elementary is holding a raffle for the kids working toward their AR Reading goal. Sport Subaru South sent us a Subaru Ascent Lego kit to incentivize the kids and their reading! Thank you to the Team at Sport Subaru South for supporting our school and for loving learning!
It may be hard to believe that a fresh pair of socks can make a difference in someone's life, but One Heart for Women & Children sees it happen every day. From the man or woman who has finally been paired with a life-changing job, but doesn't have the money for dress socks... The single mom who can hardly afford rent and groceries, let alone new socks for her kids... Or the homeless teen just trying to keep their feet fresh and healthy in the summer heat or winter cold... A fresh pair of socks can make all the difference. This summer, Mealey's Sport Subaru South teamed up with One Heart for Women and Children to collect socks for those in need. Through the generosity of their staff, customers, and partners, they collected nearly 1,000 pairs of socks for our campaign. Thank you Sport Subaru South for making this year's campaign one of the best yet!
On our cross country road trip we developed overheating problems on our 2017 Subaru Outback. We took it to sport Subaru south where Britney jumped right on the problem and assured she would do everything possible to get us back on the road in the few days we were in the Orlando area. They diagnosed the problem, order parts, gave us a loaner car, and got us back on the road in a few days. Thank you Britney for giving up your time off and excellent customer service and Subaru for the great technicians that made all that possible. Thank you.
For years we've collect retired American Flags from around the area to hold a Retirement Ceremony as part of our Duty to our Country. Sport Subaru South flies two very large and beautiful American flags at the entrance to their dealership. The dealership graciously donates the flags to us whenever they can. This year, to honor our Veterans, Cub Scout pack 42 prepared and handed out embroidered stars from retired flags with this quote attached: "I am part of our American Flag that has flown over the USA. I can no longer fly. The sun and winds have caused me to become tattered and torn. Please carry me as a reminder that you are never forgotten." We learned that one of the Managers at Sport Subaru South, Arthur Glass, is an Army Veteran. Our Cub Scout Pack visited the store to make sure he received one the stars so he knows that even though he retired from the Army, we will not forget his service.
Sport Subaru South went out of their way to help the children of Pack 42 and the Central Florida Council of the Boy Scouts of America. When the location we originally had planned to host the District Pinewood Derby fell through, Josh Snell, Antonio DeViva, and the entire team at Sport Subaru South graciously opened their doors to the community and provided what proved to be an amazing backdrop for the event. The Cub Scouts and their parents had an amazing time racing the cars they built down the track. We are all so thankful to the dealership for hosting us. I truly feel the dealership cares about their community. Thank you Sport Subaru South!
Sport Subaru South has been such a great supporter to our dog rescue in Central Florida for three years in a row. Thanks to their partnership, Poodle and Pooch Rescue (PPR) received a $4,000 grant from the ASPCA for an onsite adoption event with the Don Mealey Sport Subaru South dealership. With the grant funds we were able to take in an additional 17 dogs to prepare for the on-site adoption event, many of them “Underdogs” – those with special needs that are harder to adopt out. Since our rescue specializes in underdogs, we’re in complete agreement with Subaru that these dogs just need a chance to prove how awesome they are, and Sport Subaru South helped us do this through our adoption event. We had a very successful adoption event this year and it was very much like a family reunion. It was so good to see everyone again - old faces, new faces and it feels like Subaru is a member of the PPR family. Tony at Sport Subaru South was so accommodating and couldn't do enough to make sure we had everything we needed to be comfortable. We had 15+ volunteers, 15 adoptable dogs and many potential adopters that came out to meet these special pups, from young children to seniors – all generations connecting. In addition to the onsite event, we had PPR dogs “take over” our social media channels, reporting live from the Subaru dealership. We also went live on Tik Tok to reach people that were not able to join us in person but are very much supporters of the Subaru and ASPCA missions to get shelter and rescue dogs in to homes. We adopted out 15 dogs within 10 days following the adoption event, and 31 dogs during October as we promoted the event on social media. A big thank you to Sport Subaru South for supporting us and our mission! PPR is a 501c3 non-profit organization formed in 2008 that rescues dogs - primarily senior & special medical needs dogs in shelters. Our mission is to save as many “leftover” dogs as possible - the underdogs that have been passed over by adopters and other rescue groups. With no paid employees and no facility, we manage and operate PPR with a network of volunteers and all of our dogs live with foster families. We formed PPR to save the dogs that no one was fighting over or fighting for, dogs who were out of time with no one willing to step forward to save them.
Like many of our neighbors in Central Florida, Carlos never thought he would have to ask for help with things like food for his family. But without guests filling hotel beds, thousands of hospitality workers like Carlos experienced furlough and job losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. His main concern was ensuring his two school-age daughters had the food they needed to keep learning and growing. Thanks to the generosity of individuals, organizations and businesses like Suburu, Carlos was able to pick up a COVID-19 emergency relief box from a Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida mobile food distribution. Inside the box were nonperishable foods like peanut butter, soup, canned vegetables, beans and pasta. This gave him an immediate relief knowing there would be food on the shelves for his daughters. Second Harvest also connected Carlos with an emergency food pantry in his neighborhood. By working with a network of 550 feeding partners across six Central Florida counties, furloughed workers, families facing tough financial decisions and seniors on fixed incomes can access the nutritious foods they need close to home. The economic impact on our community has been tremendous and a heightened level of need will persist for months to come. Thanks to you, our neighbors like Carlos are feeling a sense of relief with each meal.
Sport Subaru South has been critical to our success for the second year in a row. Thanks to their partnership, Poodle and Pooch Rescue (PPR) was able to receive a $5,000 grant from the ASPCA for a joint "virtual' adoption event ("2020's Special Dogs for Special People") with the Don Mealey Sport Subaru South dealership. We took in 15 additional special needs dogs for the event - we have a program called "Aren't You Special", designed to specifically promote the adoption of special needs dogs. During the virtual adoption event, which was held via Facebook Live, we featured educational spots about Subaru and the ASPCA, featured our volunteers and educated on the mission of PPR and showcased the dogs up for adoption. We had over 80 people attend the event live and 1,900+ views in total in the week following the event. We adopted out 9 dogs within the week following the virtual adoption event and 31 dogs that entire month. A big thank you to Sport Subaru South for supporting us and our mission! PPR is a 501c3 non-profit organization formed in 2008 that rescues dogs - primarily senior & special medical needs dogs in shelters. Our mission is to save as many “leftover” dogs as possible - the dogs that have been passed over by adopters and other rescue groups. With no paid employees and no facility, we manage and operate PPR with a network of volunteers and all of our dogs live with foster families. We formed PPR to save the dogs that no one was fighting over or fighting for, dogs who were out of time with no one willing to step forward to save them.
I'm the president of a foundation that was a recipient of the recent "share the love" event as well as many other acts of generosity from this specific business. They have collectively been such a huge local support of the work we do for our community. Be it writing checks, spreading the word, attending events or even recommending people needing our help Sports Subaru South has been such a valued part of everything we do and the people we help. Could not do what we do without organizations such as this. Thank you.
Sport Subaru South reached out to us with the opportunity for us to receive a $5000 grant from the ASPCA. This is going to impact our organization and enable us to save the lives of so many animals. Together we hosted an event to raise awareness for our cause and start a long partnership with them. A big thanks to Sport Subaru South and the Mealey Family for supporting us and our organization! Poodle and Pooch Rescue is a 501(c)3 non profit organization that saves dogs that truly need help. We rescue the "leftovers" from animal control, the dogs nobody wants because they're older or suffer from neglect, abuse or have a medical need. Their "last" day becomes the first day of their new life. We provide the veterinary care they need, a foster family they love and when they're ready, we adopt them to a family who cherishes them. We do not have a physical shelter because every dog lives with one of our foster families. We are all volunteers so your tax-deductible donation goes directly to help the dogs. We have saved over 4000 dogs since 2008.
A few weeks ago, a co-worker was involved in an accident in her Subaru Tribeca. Fortunately, she was not injured...unfortunately, the Tribeca was totaled. Knowing I drive a Subaru Forester, she came to me for a recommendation on a dealership or Salesman. I referred her to Alex Tamer at Orlando's Sport Subaru. This is where it gets interesting. I had no idea this referral would come back to me in the form of a check from Sport Subaru...what a surprise. I have always tried to treat any sudden appearance of unexpected cash as a "pay it forward" opportunity. In this case, I had been following: https://www.instagram.com/namib_naude/?hl=en and knew immediately that this referral check would go to Naude. Naude is doing amazing work in the far western shore of Namibia, South Africa...helping seals and other sealife that have become trapped in fishing gear or other seaborne trash. He started off capturing seal pups that had become trapped in fishing gear and other trash. Due to the size of the adults, he was not able to help many of them. That was until he started getting donations like the one I sent him...ultimately from Subaru! The donations allowed him to have special nets made. Nets that could immobilize an adult seal, while still allowing him access to the animal so he could cut the fishing line, shipping straps, or other packaging they have become entangled in. This is dangerous work!!! It is really amazing what Naude is doing...and that Subaru is helping him!
Nothing sparks a child's imagination like a brand new book in their hands. Endeavor Elementary is grateful to Subaru's Love Learning Project and the American Association for the Advancement of Science for their generous donation of grade level STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) books. The books will be added to our non-fiction shelves the media center and will be available for check out to all of our 780 students Each one a beneficiary of your charitable gift. Endeavor's goal is to create a unique learning environment where children love learning. Partners in education such as Subaru are helping us make it happen. Thank you again for selecting Endeavor Elementary, where Navigators are Charting a Course to Excellence.
Many thanks to everyone at Sport Subaru South and Nemours Children’s Hospital, not only for a memorable day, but for supporting LLS’s mission to cure blood cancers and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. On June 26th, 2019, the North and Central Florida Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Sport Subaru South had the pleasure of delivering blankets to patients at Nemours Children’s Hospital, as part of the Subaru Loves To Care program. These comforting gifts were accompanied by personalized messages of hope written by the customers and staff of Sport Subaru South. This incredible act of generosity was warmly received by the Nemours Children’s Hospital staff who were thrilled to help distribute these comforting gifts to their patients. LLS is proud to partner with Subaru to spread hope, love and warmth to those fighting cancer, across the country and right here in the North and Central Florida community. Many thanks to everyone at Sport Subaru and Nemours not only for a memorable day, but for supporting LLS’s mission to cure blood cancers and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
Thank you Sport Subaru South for supporting Pet Rescue by Judy animal shelter of Sanford, Florida during the 2018 Share the Love Event with a $13,934 donation. Your generosity enabled Pet Rescue by Judy to purchase a newer and higher capacity van for the transportation of rescued cats and dogs. Now, more of our animals are getting to their needed veterinarian appointments and adoption events. Additionally, Sport Subaru South went even further and provided a graphic wrap for our Pet Rescue by Judy van! Thank you Sport Subaru South for helping more cats and dogs find their forever home.
Don Mealey Sport Subaru South was among the Title Partners for this year's tournament that benefits The N.O.W. Matters More Foundation. Since 2011 we have helped silence the stigma of addiction, help families navigate the best treatment options available for their needs, and provide scholarships to fill the gaps of insurance coverage. This years tournament was held at Reunion Resort & Golf. In addition to the monies raised we also received 5 full treatment scholarships. That alone is a value of over $120,000. This type of support is priceless to the recipients. The support we received from Don Mealey Sport Subaru South allows the foundation to continue helping families in the Central Florida area. Everyone knows someone that is currently suffering from the grasp of addiction. Visit nowmattersmore.org or call 833-NOW-MATTERS for more information.
We created live-in adoption center in our dealership and partnered with a great organization, Safe and Sound Satos, out of Puerto Rico. They help us with dogs in need of a forever home. They live with us until they are adopted. Safe and Sound Satos are an animal rescue dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding forever homes for the abused, neglected and forgotten street dogs of Puerto Rico that we lovingly call "satos". We will continue to support this great cause during the whole year because at Sport Subaru South we love pets!
Nate Naymick and his team from Sport Subaru South selected Freedom Middle School as the recipient of the Subaru Loves Learning initiative gifting us with 150 award-winning science books along with consumable school supplies to benefit the science department and 1,250 students enrolled in our science program. The books will be used to enhance our district-wide CLOSE reading program and develop print-rich science classrooms where a love of reading reaches all contents in the school curriculum.
Did Sport Subaru South go above and beyond, provide exceptional service, or support causes that are important to you? We'd love to hear about it.
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