“We’re part of the GSBA and we want to be a partner in all ways,” said Jennifer Moran, executive director of Carter Subaru. “We never want to just slap our logo on an event, wipe our hands clean and wait until next year.”

Carter Subaru makes it their mission to get involved with their philanthropic partners on the ground floor. Whether it’s volunteering at local shelters or getting their hands dirty planting trees, the organization is constantly looking for ways to make a difference in the community. When Moran connected with GSBA, she immediately recognized the powerful work they do, specifically in the education space, and found a way to get connected with GSBA in a meaningful way.

“Being involved with GSBA and other organizations like Treehouse, I heard story after story of LGBTQIA+ individuals who had to overcome terrible hardships to get an education,” Moran said. “At some point, you sit there and go ‘We have to do something different.’”

Founded in 2021, the Carter Subaru-VW-Acura Driving Excellence Scholarship grants monetary funds and career development resources to recipients. It’s typically awarded to those looking to go into a trade profession, whether maritime, construction or the automotive industry, but is open to any student who wants to make a difference in their chosen field.

“Carter Subaru is trying to make an impact, not just by selling cars, but by giving back to the community that has supported us so much,” Moran said. “We want to give the scholarship to a student that is looking to do the same.”

The Carter Subaru scholarship not only offers guidance to its recipients, but to any GSBA scholar looking for advice. The company has a team of people ready to talk about career pathing, professional development opportunities and more.

“We want to help students feel supported and walk away knowing that there are people who care about them, their story and their future.” Moran said.

In addition to being a scholarship sponsor, Carter Subaru has been a Ruby Jewel sponsor for 12 years and has found creative ways to get involved with the organization. Most recently, Moran came up with the idea to feature GSBA members and small businesses onsite to help support and widen their client bases.

“Sometimes people spend a couple hours in the service department while we work on their car,” Moran said. “We want to have businesses set up booths with samples or demonstrations so they can spread the word about their products or services.”