Tyler Corder
Las Vegas is a community like no other. One of the unique aspects of this city is that only a small percentage of the population is actually from here. Most of us came from somewhere else. I hear people say that this makes it hard to feel a sense of community, but I feel the opposite. I think it provides an opportunity for us to create a special community, one that’s even better and more caring than where we came from.
Since most people in Las Vegas are transplants, we are relatively free from the cliques and exclusive social networks seen in other cities. There are no barriers to involvement here. Doors are open in Las Vegas. I’ve noticed that people here are quick to accept newcomers, and it’s easy to get involved.
Individual involvement makes a community great. At Findlay Automotive, we have been active in the community since our founding in 1961. We believe it is a responsibility of every business to give back to the community. We encourage our people to join charity boards, volunteer and support local organizations. It’s a way to improve the area where we live and, incidentally, we also feel it’s good for business. If people see us out doing good things in the community, they just might remember us when it comes time to look for a new car.
If you’d like to get involved but aren’t sure where to start, consider this: What are you passionate about? What moves you? If you have children, it may be youth sports or schools. If a friend or relative has had a disease, you can find a charity that deals with it. If you love the arts, there are plenty of organizations that can use your help. Whatever it is that you care about, find an organization that addresses that issue and call them. Local charities and community organizations need you.
In my case, I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of organizations that do wonderful things. I knew someone who worked at Safe Nest, so I got involved in the battle against domestic violence. Then I got involved in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the American Heart Association. I’ve had family members dealing with both of those issues. Then I joined the board of the Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow (FIT) to help people get good jobs and off of public assistance. Most recently, I’ve become the board president for the American Red Cross, which helps people in so many ways. Along the way, I’ve met some great people and developed strong relationships with people whom I otherwise would never have met.
Once you take the first step toward community involvement, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. Author David McGee said this about giving: “What we spend, we lose. What we keep will be left for others. What we give away will be ours forever.” There is a unique happiness only found in serving others. It gives a sense of purpose that can’t be found in just doing your job and trying to make a living. We are all blessed to live in this great city in the greatest country in the world. It is our responsibility to try to give back a little bit. You’ll be glad you did.
Tyler Corder is CEO and chief financial officer at Findlay Automotive Group.