Driving Positive Change: How Matt LaFontaine Chevy GMC Gives Back

At Matt LaFontaine Chevrolet GMC, community involvement isn’t just something we talk about — it’s a commitment we live every day. From education and workforce development to industry leadership and compassionate local support, the team here is dedicated to making a meaningful impact throughout northern Michigan and beyond.

Fueling Education & Opportunity

One of the most powerful ways Matt LaFontaine Chevrolet GMC contributes to the community is by supporting future generations. In a major investment in higher education, Matt and Christine LaFontaine pledged $50,000 to establish the Matt LaFontaine Automotive Endowed Scholarship at Kirtland Community College. This scholarship helps students pursuing careers in automotive technology, easing financial barriers and enabling hands-on learning in a field vital to Michigan’s economy.

That support goes even further. In recognition of this generous donation, Kirtland Community College opened the Matt LaFontaine Automotive Technology Center — a state-of-the-art facility designed to prepare students for high-demand careers in automotive service and repair. The ribbon-cutting event brought together students, faculty, and community leaders, all underscoring the importance of preparing a skilled workforce for the evolving automotive industry.

Leadership Beyond the Dealership

Giving back also means stepping up to lead. Matt LaFontaine continues his influence beyond the Grayling community by serving on the Michigan Automobile Dealers Association (MADA) Board as the new South District Director. In this role, he works collaboratively with other dealers across Michigan to promote best practices, advance industry standards, and support local businesses that are integral to their communities’ success.

This leadership not only strengthens the automotive retail industry but also reflects Matt’s belief that responsible business ownership includes advocating for colleagues and communities on a broader scale.

Supporting Animals & Local Causes

Community involvement doesn’t stop at education and industry leadership — it also reaches the compassionate side of Grayling’s local needs. Matt LaFontaine Automotive has partnered with local nonprofit organizations like the AuSable Valley Animal Shelter, contributing to initiatives that support animal welfare in the region.

A Legacy of Community at Every Turn

These efforts reflect a broader philosophy that the team at Matt LaFontaine Chevrolet GMC lives by: success in business should go hand-in-hand with giving back. Whether investing in the next generation of skilled technicians, supporting industry collaboration, or partnering with local nonprofits, the dealership’s involvement enriches the community and strengthens bonds throughout northern Michigan.

At the heart of these initiatives is a simple but powerful idea — businesses thrive when communities thrive. Through continued support of education, leadership in industry organizations, and meaningful local partnerships, Matt LaFontaine Chevrolet GMC proves that community involvement isn’t an add-on — it’s a core part of who they are and how they serve.

Tags: animal shelter, community, Grayling community, MADA, Michigan charity, Michigan community
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