John ‘JP’ Patterson, president of four OC car dealerships with a fifth on the way, supports widespread local charitable work in numerous fields including autism, mental health and aid to the homeless.
“The employees work for an organization that they believe is significantly more than just selling and servicing cars,” the Patterson Autos owner told the Business Journal on Dec. 12.
Patterson, an OC car dealer for over 21 years, says the company provides over $200,000 in annual donations, plus over 100,000 pounds of support in food, clothing, supplies and gifts.
That includes support for the faith-based Orange County Rescue Mission, which helps the homeless, and Teen Challenge of Southern California, which aids those “trapped in drug and alcohol abuse.”
He added: “In the beginning part of the year, we focus on Autism Speaks.”
Patterson Autos works with the Didi Hirsch organization, which provides mental health, substance use disorder and suicide prevention services.
Company Contributions, Rescue Mission
“The charities that we work with are charities that a lot of our teammates have come up with,” Patterson said. “Our teammates can see the cause and effect relationship of the dollars that we’re giving in.”
The company says that in every transaction at its dealerships, whether it’s a vehicle purchase or a service, a portion of the proceeds is dedicated to local partners.
“During July, our team, alongside our wonderful customers, gathers essential items – diapers, canned goods, school supplies and more. The culmination of this effort is a heartfelt convoy of cars, vans and trucks brimming with these donations, which we personally deliver to the Rescue Mission,” Patterson Autos said.
The company adds: “Our connection with the Orange County Rescue Mission is especially meaningful, as we have the honor of employing three incredible individuals who have courageously journeyed from hardship to new beginnings with us at Patterson Autos.”
The charitable commitment extends to partnerships with organizations such as HomeAid Orange County, the Ronald McDonald House, CHOC and many more.
“We believe in giving back to those who support us, fostering a cycle of mutual aid and appreciation that strengthens the fabric of Orange County,” the company said.
Mazda, Hyundai, Kia; 300 Employees
Patterson owns Tustin Mazda, Tustin Hyundai, Huntington Beach Mazda and Mission Viejo Kia.
“I am building another Kia store in Tustin as we speak,” the company president said.
The company employees about 300 people in Orange County.
He said the Patterson Autos this year is looking at $1.1 billion in total revenue, including sales and servicing, while next year’s addition of Tustin Kia will likely increase the total by $100 million to as much as $200 million.
The company is profitable, according to Patterson.
Employees are also involved in charity.
“I match every donation up to $50 for that charity,” said Patterson. Employees get three days a year to handle outside charity activities and hands-on volunteer work.
Employees Rowing the Boat
Patterson emphasizes to his employees the need to work together by posting oars in all of his car dealerships.
“I believe in a row-the-boat mentality,” said the owner of Patterson Autos. “All throughout our dealerships we have oars posted.”
“You are the oar. The boat is the team and the compass is our direction. Everyone is part of a much bigger deal. How you’re rowing on any given day is going go affect your team. It’s going to affect the overall direction of the organization,” Patterson said.
He is proud of the benefits the employees get, including paid time off, including three weeks annually for 10 years or more.
Birthdays are off, and employees get three days a year to handle outside charity activities. Patterson’s dealerships are closed on major holidays.
“We have season tickets to the Ducks. We have season tickets to the Angels,” he said. There are also Christmas parties.
“Our turnover’s incredibly low,” he said, averaging around 5% to 6% per year.
