AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale Donates $130,000 in Community Day of Giving
On May 29, AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale marked a significant day of community impact by donating a combined $130,000 to two Arizona-based nonprofits. The day of giving was led by General Manager Sara Bishop and reflected the dealership’s long-standing commitment to supporting families, children, and healthcare-related causes across the region.
The morning portion of the event took place at the AZAFAP community park, where leaders, families, and community members gathered for a special ceremony. During the event, AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale presented a $120,000 donation to the Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents (AZAFAP). This contribution represents the largest single donation the dealership has ever made to the organization, underscoring the depth of its long-term partnership and continued investment in community development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sara Bishop emphasized the importance of the milestone and the strength of the 12-year relationship between the dealership and AZAFAP. She highlighted the shared mission of supporting children and families in need, as well as the broader goal of “driving out cancer” through initiatives connected to Make-A-Wish and community wellness programs.
“Friday marked a meaningful milestone in our 12-year partnership with AZAFAP and our long-term commitment to driving out cancer through Make-A-Wish,” said Bishop. “From investing in the rebuild of this community park to creating a memorable camping experience for Elsa and her family, we are proud to help make a lasting impact across the Phoenix community.”
The morning event also featured the unveiling of architectural renderings for a planned renovation and enhancement of the community park. These improvements are intended to create a safe, welcoming, and family-friendly environment for foster and adoptive families. In addition to the presentation and announcements, attendees participated in a range of family-oriented activities designed to celebrate community spirit and inclusion.
The $120,000 donation builds upon a 12-year partnership between AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale and AZAFAP that has now contributed more than $230,000 in total support. Over the years, this partnership has extended far beyond financial contributions. The dealership has consistently played a leading role in AZAFAP’s annual back-to-school shoe drive, helping provide new footwear to hundreds of children each year. It has also supported initiatives such as Operation Warm, which distributes jackets to families in need, as well as holiday programs that deliver bikes and toys to children during the festive season.
AZAFAP leadership expressed deep appreciation for the continued collaboration and long-term commitment shown by AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale. Lynn Fox-Embrey, Treasurer of the Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents, praised the dealership’s consistency and dedication over more than a decade of partnership.
“AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale is one of the most consistent and generous partners we have. For more than a decade, Sara and her team have shown up for our families,” said Fox-Embrey. “This investment will transform our community park into a space where our foster and adoptive families can come together for years to come.”
Following the morning ceremony, the day of giving continued with a second event held at the AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale dealership. This afternoon celebration focused on a $10,000 donation to Make-A-Wish Arizona, an organization dedicated to granting life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
The highlight of the afternoon was a special celebration organized for Elsa, a seven-year-old pediatric cancer patient receiving care at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. In honor of her wish to go camping with her family, the dealership team hosted a camping-themed party designed to bring her wish experience to life in a joyful and memorable way.
The event featured themed decorations, interactive activities, and a warm, family-centered atmosphere that reflected Elsa’s dream of spending time in nature. The celebration provided not only entertainment but also emotional support and encouragement for Elsa and her family during a challenging time.
Fran Mallace, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Arizona, expressed gratitude for the dealership’s contribution and the impact it will have on fulfilling children’s wishes across the state.
“We are grateful to Sara and the AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale team for providing a day of joy for Elsa,” said Mallace. “Donations like this are essential to our mission and will help us bring her wish to life, giving Elsa the chance to reconnect with nature and make new memories with her family.”
The $10,000 contribution to Make-A-Wish Arizona is part of a broader corporate commitment by AutoNation to support communities through its DRV PNK initiative. This national program focuses on raising awareness and funding for cancer-related causes and has generated more than $50 million in donations to date. Through dealership-level activations and partnerships, the initiative aims to bring direct support to patients, families, and nonprofit organizations working in cancer care and research.
Together, the two donations made on May 29 highlight AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale’s continued focus on community engagement, philanthropy, and long-term partnerships that create measurable impact. From improving public spaces for foster families to bringing joy and hope to children battling serious illnesses, the dealership’s efforts demonstrate a consistent commitment to making a difference beyond the automotive industry.
As the events concluded, community members, nonprofit leaders, and dealership representatives reflected on the significance of the day. The combined $130,000 donation not only provided immediate support but also reinforced a broader vision of sustained community investment and compassionate outreach.
Through initiatives like these, AutoNation Subaru Scottsdale continues to position itself as more than a dealership—serving instead as a long-term partner in strengthening local communities and supporting those who need it most.
About AutoNation, Inc.
AutoNation, one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offers innovative products and exceptional services as part of a portfolio of comprehensive solutions for our customers and their automotive needs. With a nationwide network of dealerships strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $50 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.
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