Our Community Involvement

While we’re known for our fantastic selection of new and pre-owned vehicles and our exceptional service team, we’re much more than just your typical car dealership. We’re deeply committed to the communities we serve, and we’re proud to be involved in a variety of local events that make a real difference. While our participation is important, we believe in the power of community and encourage those in Martinsville-Henry County and surrounding areas to stay informed and join us in getting involved whenever possible. Together, we can make an even greater impact!


Nelson Toyota Donates $1,000 to The Salvation Army of Martinsville

Nelson Toyota has donated $1,000 to the Salvation Army Service Center of Martinsville to support its family service programs and social service initiatives in the coming year. Dealer Principal Barry Nelson presented the donation to Commanding Officer Lieutenant Antonio Hodges and Service Center Director Tekela Redd on December 24, 2024. “This will continue to go into our family service programs,” Lieutenant Hodges said. “We are going to start headstrong in the new year with all of our programs for social services, including utility assistance, feeding, and hotel assistance. We are thankful to Nelson for providing funding to help us continue to help families that are in need.” Nelson emphasized the longstanding partnership between the dealership group and the Salvation Army. “We have been supporting the Salvation Army for a long time, and we want to continue that work,” Nelson said. “I am glad that we can support their efforts to help families with gifts and meals this Christmas, but also all year round.”

Nelson Toyota Donates $1,500 to Grace Network for Richard’s Dinner

Nelson Toyota has donated $1,500 to support Richard’s Dinner, an annual community event hosted in collaboration with the Grace Network of Martinsville-Henry County. Dealer Principal Barry Nelson presented the check to Scott Norman, the dinner’s organizer and an Autos By Nelson employee, on December 23, 2024. “We feed the community. All comers, no questions asked. If you need a place to be at Christmas, this is about not being alone,” said Norman. “It means everything to be supported by my peers, as well as my boss.” The donation will help provide meals for approximately 500 people during the event. “We’ve been doing this over 10 years and are glad to do it. Scott is a good representative of our company, and we just want to back him,” Nelson said. “This helps at a needy time.”

Nelson Toyota Donates $1,500 to Martinsville Henry County SPCA

Nelson Toyota has donated $1,500 to the Martinsville Henry County SPCA to support the organization’s upcoming annual Fur Ball fundraiser and its ongoing care for animals in need. Dealer Principal Barry Nelson presented the check to Catherine Gupton, Chief Operations Officer of the SPCA, on December 24, 2024. “This will go towards our Fur Ball, which is coming up in February and is our largest annual fundraiser,” Gupton said. “This sponsorship helps cover the cost of general daily care for the animals, as well as spay and neuter services and vaccines. We love Nelson Automotive—they have supported us in a lot of different ways.” Nelson emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting community initiatives. “We like to support the local community, and this is one of the ways we do it,” Nelson said. “Everyone has a pet, and we understand the importance of supporting those who care for them. We’ve done this for many years and we’re not stopping now.”

Nelson Toyota Donates $2,000 to Southside Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Nelson Toyota has donated $2,000 to support the Southside Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), a local organization dedicated to spreading the gospel and supporting youth through sports ministry. Dealer Principal Barry Nelson presented the check to Southside FCA Director Tyler Cotner on December 23, 2024. “This funds our ministry here in the Southside. We will be able to hand out Bibles, spread the gospel, and send kids to camp and other places,” Cotner said. “They are invaluable. Mr. Nelson, the employees—everyone here—they are some of our biggest supporters. Mr. Nelson prays as much as he gives. It means a lot to have him help us out like this.” Nelson has long supported the FCA, including starting a chapter at Patrick & Henry Community College during his time as a coach. “This organization is a great place to reach young people,” Nelson said. “This may be the only place where they get to see the Lord or hear the Word. It means a lot to me to grow the ministry, and this is a good place to grow it.”

Martinsville Teacher of the Year

Autos By Nelson understands the vital role education plays in shaping our community’s future. We are honored to celebrate and reward our outstanding educators. This year, we are proud to present Martinsville City Public Schools’ Teacher of the Year, Beverly Woody, with the keys to a brand-new Honda Prologue. She will enjoy driving it for part of the year, along with complimentary access to our Level 1 fast charger. Congratulations, Beverly, and thank you for your dedication to education!

Henry County Teacher of the Year

At Autos By Nelson, we believe education is the foundation of our community, and we’re proud to recognize and reward our exceptional educators. In celebration of their dedication, the Henry County Public Schools District Teacher of the Year and the two runners-up were each handed the keys to a brand-new Ford Mustang Mach-E, the first-ever rally-inspired electric vehicle by Ford. Perfect for outdoor adventures or the daily drive to school, they’ll enjoy this incredible vehicle for part of the school year.

Congratulations to Meadow View Elementary School’s Carl Scales (2nd Runner-Up), Axton Elementary School’s Amanda Chaney (1st Runner-Up), and Bassett High School’s Joshua Doss, the District Teacher of the Year. Thank you for inspiring our future leaders!

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