Cleveland, OH (August 18, 2025) – The Greater Cleveland Automobile Dealers’ Association (GCADA) through its Auto Dealers’ Educational Assistance Foundation (ADEAF) has provided academic scholarships and donations to support the community.
“I’m so proud to announce that 61 scholarships of $2,500 each were awarded to deserving students for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year,” says Patrick O’Brien, chairman of the GCADA and owner of Firelands Auto Group. “We aim to support the next generation, and ease the financial burden of higher education through these scholarships.”
Applications were sent to all GCADA member dealerships for employee participation, and the winners were chosen from among a compelling field of candidates comprised of dependents of member dealership employees and employees themselves.
“The GCADA and our member dealers are dedicated to supporting education, and not only at institutions that help people pursue a career in the automotive industry,” adds Lou Vitantonio, Jr., president of the GCADA. “The Foundation is funded by our membership and the Cleveland Auto Show.”
In addition to the individual scholarships, the GCADA through ADEAF also donated a total of $30,000 to support post-secondary automotive technology programs at Stark State College and Cuyahoga Community College, with $15,000 each.
“Supporting the automotive technology programs at these local institutions is important, to help ensure that their students are well equipped to handle the latest standards required of today’s technicians,” said Vitantonio.
In additional community support efforts, the GCADA through the NADA Foundation designated two grants in the amount of $16,000 each to two local organizations, with the intent to sustain their missions.
Cornerstone of Hope provides support, education, and hope for the grieving. Bereavement support groups, individual counseling, and training courses are now facilitated in locations across Ohio, including the first center in Independence.
Hattie Larlham Foundation serves children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, enhancing quality of life. The organization provides residential, medical, recreational, educational, work training and employment services to individuals in Northeast and Central Ohio.
About the GCADA
The Greater Cleveland Automobile Dealers’ Association (GCADA) has served the retail automobile industry and community with integrity and distinction since 1915. Today, located in Broadview Heights, GCADA represents over 280 franchised motor vehicle dealers, which include new-car, truck, motorcycle and RV dealers in 32 Ohio counties along the Lake Erie shore and beyond. More information on the GCADA can be found at www.gcada.org.
About the Cleveland Auto Show
The Cleveland Auto Show features pre-production and production vehicles from the world’s auto manufacturers. The Show also provides an array of entertainment, including celebrity appearances, throughout the ten-day run. The Cleveland Auto Show is a no-pressure, consumer show and a favorite family tradition since 1903. Find tickets and info online at clevelandautoshow.com, and get as-it-happens updates on social media with #CLEAutoShow.
