The Georgia Automobile Dealers Association (GADA) responded to Representative Lehman Franklin, dealer principal of Franklin Automotive Group and member of the GADA request for a $10,000 donation.
GADA made the contribution to support Bulloch VOAD's efforts Bulloch Strong, a nonprofit organization and member of Bulloch VOAD, focused on long-term and immediate disaster recovery in Bulloch County. This donation is a vital part of the area's continued recovery efforts following Hurricanes Debby and Helene. This is a part of the $50,000 that GADA contributed to the National Auto Dealers Association's Emergency Relief Fund.
Franklin shared the motivation behind his contribution. As a member of GADA, Franklin lobbied for their support in the wake of the disaster. When they agreed, he recommended Bulloch Strong, recognizing the nonprofit's commitment to aiding both the immediate needs and long-term recovery of the community.
“We’re just glad that we were able to help,” Franklin said. “The Georgia Auto Dealers Association wanted to do something impactful for the counties affected, and Bulloch Strong stood out. They’re doing an amazing job here. Everyone in the community has really pulled together, and we wanted to support that in any way we could.”
A Community United in Recovery
Bulloch Strong, led by Bulloch VOAD member Jonathan Smith and pastor of Pittman Park United Methodist Church, was established after Hurricane Debby revealed a lack of long-term recovery support in Bulloch County. While the community rallies together in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, Bulloch Strong focuses on ensuring that people receive the help they need for months, and even years, after the storm.
Franklin helped not only contributed financially but also supported the effort by loaning a vehicle to help with relief work. He witnessed firsthand the dedication of volunteers and organizations working tirelessly to serve the community during this critical time.
“It was great to see Bulloch VOAD partners efforts on the ground,” Franklin noted. “VOAD partners like Jonathan and his wife Stephanie along with his team at Pittman Park UMC specifically have sacrificed so much to help the community, and it’s inspiring to watch everyone come together.”
The Impact of the $10,000 Donation
The $10,000 donation from Franklin and GADA has already begun to make a difference. According to Smith, the funds have allowed Bulloch Strong to provide essential resources to those in need. Just last weekend, the organization fed 800 people and distributed pallets of water to areas still without power.
“For us, this money means being able to continue the work,” said Smith. “It ensures that we can not only address the immediate needs but also sustain long-term recovery efforts. The generosity of donors like GADA is helping us be here for the long haul.”
GADA's contribution is a powerful testament to the strength of the Statesboro community and the value of neighbors helping neighbors in times of need. Their $10,000 donation is part of a larger effort, with other local businesses like CORE Credit Union challenging others to step up and contribute.
Looking Forward
"You know, one of the things that we believe about the local church is that the church doesn't exist for its own sake, it exists for the sake of the community," Smith said. "If you look back into the New Testament, you hear the writers say that we should pray for the good of the community that we're in, the good of the people that we're with. We believe the kingdom of God is coming on earth as it is in heaven, and we want to be a part of building that kingdom right here in Bulloch County."
As Bulloch Strong continues its relief and recovery work, GADA's donation serves as a shining example of local leadership and generosity. Their support will help ensure that Bulloch County is not only prepared for the next disaster but also equipped to provide long-term recovery assistance.