On a Mission to Love Their Neighbor

December 2021 Business Feature

Christian Brothers Automotive, a full-service complete automotive retail shop, has done a lot more than just work on cars since they opened their doors in 2009; they have made their mission to love their neighbors a reality by giving back to the community through various non-profit efforts.

For the last couple of years, Christian Brothers Automotive has partnered with OnRamp, a local non-profit organization, to help people in our community gain access to a safe vehicle to drive.

“One of the guys that used to own a Christian Brothers in Round Rock, actually retired in this area . . . he comes into the shop all the time, and he approached me one day and told me they were looking to start this non-profit to help people out — people in need of cars,” said Darrel Fikes, owner, and operator of Christian Brothers. “So, I partnered up with them and we’ve been going strong for a couple of years now.”

“I have been there on several giveaways, and it is a blessing . . . it is a great honor to be a part of that,” said Fikes.

Additionally, every year in October, Chrisitan Brothers has a National Service Day where they give single mothers in the community free oil changes all day, and sometimes a few free repairs.

“We have actually expanded [the service day] since we first started it. Our corporate office pitches in $2,500 for repairs,” said Fikes. “Some of the vehicles need tires, or they need brakes or whatnot when they come in to get their oil change. We will talk to that particular single mom, find out what is going on in her life . . . and we will schedule them to come in and get their car repaired at no cost.”

This last October Chrisitan Brothers serviced 38 oil changes at both the Bryan and College Station locations — totaling a number of 76 cars. Fikes said 28 of the 76 cars came back for repairs. “It definitely blesses our team more than it blesses them,” Fikes said.

When asked about their mission, Fikes said they want to uphold their motto, which is to: “glorify God with ethical and excellent automotive service and to love your neighbour as yourself.” To learn more about OnRamp or how you can give, go to onramptx.org.