EPISODE: 117 – Back to School Marketing Panel
Join host Kim Walker as she leads a heartwarming and insightful panel discussion with auto repair shop owners who are making a real difference in their communities. In this special episode, our panelists share how they’re stepping up during the back-to-school season to support local students and teachers through creative initiatives—from donating school supplies to funding teacher wish lists and organizing community events.
Listen as Tonnika Haynes, Christina Grace Beverly, and Nakia and Nate Bailor discuss the challenges they’ve faced, the unexpected rewards of giving back, and how these efforts have strengthened their ties to the community. Whether you’re a shop owner looking for inspiration or simply curious about the power of local engagement, this episode is packed with practical tips and stories that will inspire you to take action.
Hit play now to learn how even small gestures can create lasting impacts, both for your business and your community! 🚗🎒
Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops
Timestamps
Introduction to the Panel (00:00:11)
Kim Walker introduces the panel discussion and shares her excitement about community engagement initiatives.
Teacher Nomination Initiative (00:01:18)
Kim discusses a local community event where teachers were nominated to receive financial support.
Panelist Introductions (00:03:11)
Each panelist introduces themselves and their respective auto repair shops.
Tonnika’s School Supply Donation (00:05:19)
Tonnika shares her experience donating backpacks and school supplies to local elementary school children.
Christina’s Amazon Wishlist Initiative (00:08:04)
Christina describes gathering Amazon wishlists from teachers and how her shop supported them.
Nakia and Nate’s Back-to-School Bash (00:12:07)
Nakia and Nate discuss their significant contributions to a local back-to-school event, providing supplies to needy children.
Community Engagement Through Nonprofits (00:16:05)
Discussion on starting a nonprofit and raising funds for community support through events.
Impact of Fundraising Events (00:17:18)
Overview of community fundraising events and their positive outcomes for local children and schools.
Inspiration for Future Initiatives (00:19:31)
Kim encourages shop owners to engage in community support and share inspiring stories.
Collaborating with Vendors (00:20:33)
Tonnika considers involving customers and vendors in back-to-school initiatives for greater impact.
Employee Involvement in Community Events (00:21:42)
Staff share enthusiasm for participating in community events, highlighting the joy it brings.
Gratitude from Teachers (00:22:38)
Discussion on receiving appreciation from teachers, emphasizing the positive impact on the community.
Team Communication on Initiatives (00:24:07)
Importance of keeping the entire team informed about community initiatives to build loyalty.
Planning Community Events Together (00:25:23)
Tonnika shares plans for a team event to pack supplies together for local children.
Unexpected Community Recognition (00:26:53)
Discussion on receiving unexpected media attention from community service efforts.
Publicity from Community Efforts (00:28:12)
Sharing experiences of gaining community support and media coverage through charitable actions.
Social Media as a Tool for Outreach (00:29:07)
Using social media to promote community efforts and potentially attract media attention.
Evaluating ROI on Community Initiatives (00:30:30)
Exploration of whether community service efforts yield tangible returns on investment.
Giving Back to the Community (00:31:41)
Discussion on the importance of giving back to the community rather than focusing on ROI.
Community Impact and Brand Awareness (00:32:29)
How past community initiatives enhance brand awareness and customer loyalty over time.
Joy from Community Support (00:33:25)
Sharing personal experiences of joy and connection through community support initiatives.
Creating a Welcoming Environment (00:34:20)
The significance of making customers feel at home and valued in the business environment.
Personal Connections with Community Kids (00:35:44)
Reflections on building relationships with local children and their families over the years.
Legacy of Giving (00:36:52)
The impact of being perceived as a giver in the community and its long-term benefits.
Challenges in Supporting Teachers (00:38:40)
Discussing the difficulties faced in providing support and funding to teachers.
Pivoting to Direct Support (00:41:51)
Adjusting strategies to provide direct assistance to students when challenges arise.
Streamlining Community Efforts (00:42:14)
Reflecting on improving processes for community support initiatives in the future.
Encouragement to Start Small (00:45:10)
Advice for small businesses to begin community initiatives regardless of budget constraints.
Unexpected Donations (00:46:09)
The importance of recognizing and donating unused supplies to support local schools.
Volunteering Opportunities (00:46:39)
Discussion on giving time to local initiatives, emphasizing the value of volunteering.
Support for Automotive Programs (00:47:04)
Exploration of partnerships with local automotive schools and donation of old tools.
Donating a Vehicle (00:47:46)
Sharing experiences of donating a car to a local high school for educational purposes.
Proctoring Tests (00:48:08)
Encouragement to volunteer as proctors for tests in local schools, highlighting the need for support.
Reading to Students (00:49:52)
Ideas for engaging with students by reading car-related books in classrooms.
Year-Round Support (00:50:07)
Discussion on supporting students and schools throughout the year, not just during back-to-school season.
Community Needs Awareness (00:51:22)
Importance of recognizing ongoing community needs and supporting students beyond the school supply drive.
Inspiration to Read (00:52:08)
Encouragement to read to children, sharing personal motivation to engage with students.
Staying Connected with Community (00:53:04)
Advice on joining local groups to stay informed about community needs and opportunities for support.
Active Community Engagement (00:54:17)
Reiteration of the importance of being active in the community and supporting local children.
How To Get In Touch
Group – Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
Website – shopmarketingpros.com
Facebook – facebook.com/shopmarketingpros
Get the Book – shopmarketingpros.com/book
Instagram – @shopmarketingpros
Questions/Ideas – podcast@shopmarketingpros.com
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
