Frank Fletcher Subaru is honored to receive the 2026 Subaru Love Promise HEART Award.
In recognition of our commitment to our customers and community.
We are honored to be nationally recognized by Subaru of America, Inc. for our dedication to living the Subaru Love Promise.
The 2026 Subaru Love Promise HEART Award recognizes Subaru retailers who use the principles of HEART: Honesty, Empathy, Appreciation, and Respect to earn your Trust.
We have been recognized for providing exemplary customer service and staying committed to our community.
Here at Frank Fletcher Subaru, we love making a positive impact on the lives of all of our customers, employees, and neighbors. We thank you for your support.
What is the Subaru Love Promise®?
The Subaru Love Promise® is our vision to show love and respect to all people at every interaction with Subaru. Subaru and our retailers believe every day gives us an opportunity to positively impact the world around us - by how we support each other, our customers, and our community. Together, we are committed to making the world a better place.
The Love Promise is what makes Subaru More Than a Car Company® and a Subaru retailer More Than a Car Dealer®. It sets a standard that we are committed to living every day.
How is Frank Fletcher Subaru dedicated locally to the Love Promise?
Our Love Promise can be seen in our actions each and every day. We hope that every interaction inspires others. We recognize that we can make a difference. We have partnerships with local charities and non-profits. We are so grateful for the opportunity to support, encourage, and love our community!
Wrapping Our Community in Comfort: Subaru Loves to Care at Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute - Sam J.
Kindness has a remarkable way of making even the most difficult days a little brighter. That spirit was at the heart of this year's Subaru Loves to Care event, where our team had the privilege of partnering with the Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute to bring comfort and encouragement to patients undergoing cancer treatment. Throughout the event, our employees, customers, and members of the community came together with one shared purpose—to remind cancer patients that they are surrounded by people who care. Together, we donated more than 90 warm, cozy blankets, each one intended to provide a small measure of comfort during treatment. Whether keeping a patient warm during an infusion or offering a sense of security during a challenging day, these blankets represent much more than a simple gift—they are a symbol of compassion, hope, and community. In addition to the blankets, volunteers wrote dozens of heartfelt Messages of Hope. Each handwritten note carried words of encouragement, strength, and support, reminding patients that they are not alone in their journey. These personal messages served as gentle reminders that an entire community is standing beside them, cheering them on through every challenge and celebrating every victory, no matter how small. The Subaru Loves to Care initiative is built on the belief that caring for our neighbors extends beyond the showroom and into the communities we call home. It is about creating meaningful connections, showing empathy, and finding ways to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Through partnerships with local healthcare providers like the Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute, Subaru retailers across the country help bring comfort to patients when they need it most. For many individuals receiving cancer treatment, the road ahead can be filled with uncertainty. While a blanket cannot ease every burden and a note cannot solve every challenge, these simple acts of kindness can provide reassurance, brighten a difficult day, and remind someone that they are seen, valued, and supported. Sometimes the smallest gestures leave the biggest impact. Delivering these blankets and messages was a meaningful experience for everyone involved. Seeing the appreciation from the dedicated staff at the Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute reinforced the importance of community partnerships and the incredible work healthcare professionals do every day to care for patients and their families. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this year's Subaru Loves to Care event a success. From those who donated blankets and shared words of encouragement to the volunteers who gave their time and energy, your generosity made a lasting difference. Together, we delivered more than blankets—we delivered warmth, hope, compassion, and the reminder that no one has to face cancer alone. At its core, Subaru Loves to Care is about showing up for our neighbors with kindness and compassion. We are honored to continue supporting our local community and look forward to finding even more opportunities to make a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.
A Home for Clover, and 41 More Happy Endings - Sam J.
There are days that remind you just how much a single act of kindness can change a life, and our day at the Joplin Humane Society was one of them. Our goal was simple: help as many animals as possible find loving forever homes. We knew that adoption fees can sometimes be the final obstacle for families who were ready to welcome a pet into their lives, so we were honored to cover those fees and remove that barrier. It was incredibly rewarding to watch excited families meet their new companions, knowing that a small gesture could make such a meaningful difference. One puppy, in particular, captured our hearts. Her name was Clover, and we made it our mission to help her find the loving home she deserved. Throughout the day, we proudly showcased Clover, hoping that the right family would see her sweet personality and give her the forever home she had been waiting for. As local news crews covered the event, one reporter couldn't help but stop and spend some time with Clover. It was obvious there was a special connection. He fell in love with her almost instantly, but after finishing his story, he headed back to work. We all wondered if we'd see him again. Later that same day, he returned with his wife. After spending more time with Clover, the decision became easy—they knew she belonged with them. Watching them officially adopt her was one of the most memorable moments of the event. It felt like the perfect ending to Clover's journey, and there wasn't a dry eye among those who witnessed it. The puppy we had hoped so desperately to find a home for had found exactly where she was meant to be. Throughout the day, the shelter was filled with smiles, wagging tails, happy purrs, and unforgettable moments. Children met their new best friends, couples found the perfect addition to their families, and individuals discovered loyal companions they had been searching for. Every adoption represented a fresh start—not only for the animals leaving the shelter but also for the families opening their hearts and homes. By the end of the event, an incredible 42 dogs and cats had been adopted. Seeing so many empty kennels was one of the most rewarding sights imaginable because each one represented a pet that no longer had to wait for a family. Instead, they were heading home to begin a new chapter filled with love, comfort, and security. The experience reminded us that every adoption changes two lives: the life of the pet and the life of the person who chooses to love them. We were proud to have played a small part in making those connections possible by covering adoption fees and helping families say "yes" to a new furry family member. As we reflected on the day, we felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride. The success of the event was measured by far more than a number, but reaching 42 adoptions was an incredible milestone that demonstrated what a caring community can accomplish when people come together for a common purpose. Clover's happy ending perfectly captured the spirit of the day. Sometimes, all it takes is one chance, one meeting, or one unexpected connection to change a life forever. Thanks to the generosity of our community and everyone who supported the event, 42 animals—including one unforgettable little puppy named Clover—found the loving homes they deserved. We couldn't have been more proud to have been part of such a meaningful day.
Toys, Teamwork, and Tails - Ashley C.
At our May store-wide meeting, our Service Manager, Ashley Carnes, wanted to create an additional opportunity for employees to live out the Subaru Love Promise while bringing our team together for a meaningful cause. Understanding that not all employees have the flexibility to participate in volunteer activities outside of work hours, she incorporated a hands-on service project into our meeting. Team members worked together to create eco-friendly dog toys by cutting and braiding recycled T-shirts and crafted cat toys using yarn. The activity not only promoted teamwork and sustainability by repurposing materials that may have otherwise been discarded, but it also allowed every employee the chance to make a direct impact in our community. Once completed, all of the handmade toys were donated to the Joplin Humane Society, our valued community partner during Subaru Loves Pets initiatives. These toys help provide comfort, enrichment, and stimulation for animals as they await adoption into their forever homes. The project was a simple but meaningful reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a difference. By creating an opportunity for employees to give back during the workday, we were able to strengthen our team while supporting an organization that shares our commitment to caring for the pets and people in our community.
Growing Kindness: A Family Day of Tree Planting at Wildcat Glades - Samantha J.
The morning sun filtered through the trees at Wildcat Glades, casting a golden glow across the trails and highlighting the gentle rustle of leaves. Members of the Kindness Collective gathered, ready for a special day of giving back to the environment. After our recent Subaru Loves the Earth event, we were thrilled to plant extra trees — and this time, we brought along our kids and parents to join in the fun. Excitement was in the air as everyone arrived, shovels, gloves, and watering cans in hand. After a quick huddle to plan the day, we split into two groups, each taking a section of the trail. One group focused on a slightly shaded area near the creek, while the other tackled an open section that would benefit from new saplings. Everyone quickly fell into rhythm: some dug holes, others positioned trees carefully, and kids with eager hands helped water and pat down the soil. Even the youngest volunteers took pride in their small contributions, and their laughter added a lighthearted soundtrack to the work. At several points, we paused to admire the progress of the trees we had planted during last year's Subaru Loves the Earth event. It was incredible to see how much they had grown in just one year, their slender trunks now stretching toward the sun, leaves full and vibrant. Parents shared stories of watching their children care for these same trees at home, while friends marveled at how such small efforts had produced visible, lasting change. It was a powerful reminder that even modest actions can leave a meaningful legacy. The work wasn't always easy. Roots twisted unexpectedly beneath the soil, and some sections of ground were stubbornly hard. But with a shared spirit and teamwork, obstacles quickly became opportunities to collaborate. Parents guided children through proper planting techniques, friends passed buckets of soil back and forth, and kids cheered as each tree stood tall in its new home. Every tree planted felt like a shared victory, a symbol of what a group of people united by kindness can accomplish. Breaks were filled with chatter, snacks, and smiles. We swapped stories, compared planting techniques, and marveled at the natural beauty around us. Children ran ahead along the trails, discovering small wonders in the leaves and rocks, while adults paused to appreciate the serene sounds of birdsong and the gentle flow of the creek. Each moment was a mix of hard work and joy, proving that environmental stewardship can be both meaningful and fun. By the end of the day, the trail was lined with freshly planted saplings, each one a testament to dedication, care, and community spirit. Families and friends gathered for a group photo, muddy and tired but glowing with pride. The Kindness Collective, along with our friends and families, had not only planted trees but had also strengthened bonds, created lasting memories, and left a tangible mark on Wildcat Glades that would grow for years to come. As we packed up and headed home, the sight of the sun setting through the trees reminded us that these small actions — digging, planting, watering, laughing — ripple outward in ways we may never fully see. Together, we had nurtured not just new life in the form of trees, but also the roots of community, connection, and shared purpose. It was a day that none of us would soon forget, a day when kindness truly grew.
After the Storm: Clearing Paths, Carrying Kindness Forward - Sam J.
The morning settled gently over the Frisco Greenway Trail, cool and clean after the night's storms. The sky had cleared, leaving behind a pale blue stretch with thin clouds drifting slowly overhead. Damp earth and fresh leaves carried that unmistakable scent that follows heavy rain. Members of the Kindness Collective arrived quietly, gathering near the trailhead. Jackets zipped, hands gloved, they took in the scene—small branches scattered across the path, leaves pressed flat against the pavement, and a few larger limbs resting where the wind had left them. They got to work without much need for direction. Branches were lifted and moved aside. Twigs were gathered into small piles near the edge of the trail. A couple of heavier limbs were dragged carefully off the path, opening it back up for anyone passing through. The work moved at a steady, natural pace, each task flowing into the next. Around them, the trail felt renewed. Birds filled the air with constant song, moving easily between branches still dotted with rain. Sunlight filtered through the trees, catching droplets and casting brief flashes of light across the damp ground. A cool breeze moved through, carrying the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Gradually, the signs of the storm faded from the path. The trail stretched forward again—clear, quiet, and ready for the day. The group paused briefly, taking in the calm they had helped restore. Then, without much ceremony, they turned back toward the trailhead. On the walk back, one member's son let out a soft, steady whistle—an easy, wandering tune that blended in with the birdsong around them. It carried lightly through the trees, adding to the quiet rhythm of the morning. There was more to do. From the quiet of the trail, they shifted into the rhythm of the day ahead—heading on to the dealership, where customers would be arriving, phones would be ringing, and another kind of service would begin. The same hands that had cleared branches and lifted limbs would soon be helping people in a different way. The morning carried forward with them—steady, purposeful, and rooted in the same simple idea: take care of what's in front of you, wherever you are.
The Soup That Brought Smiles - Sam J.
The evening we cooked at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States felt special from the moment we walked through the doors. It was a weekday—one of those ordinary evenings that quietly carries so much weight for the families staying there. We weren't just making dinner; we were stepping into a space where comfort really matters. We got to work right away, setting out ingredients and warming up the kitchen. That night's meal was sausage tortellini soup—hearty, warm, and exactly the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. As the sausage began to brown and the garlic and onions hit the pan, the kitchen slowly filled with a rich, savory aroma. Before long, that smell drifted beyond the kitchen walls. It didn't take long for people to notice. Volunteers passing through would pause, smile, and say how amazing it smelled. Guests staying at the house peeked in, some just curious, others clearly drawn in by the scent. Each comment made us smile a little more—it felt like we were already accomplishing something, even before the first bowl was served. As the soup simmered, the kitchen became a place of quiet connection. There's something about cooking that invites conversation, even in small moments—sharing a quick laugh, exchanging a kind word, or simply working side by side with a shared purpose. At one point during the evening, we were pleasantly surprised by a visit from the Director, Lori Jones. She stopped in to see how everything was going, and it was such a nice moment to connect and share what we were doing. It made the experience feel even more meaningful, knowing the impact the house has and being a small part of it that night. When everything was ready, we made sure there was enough for every guest staying at the house. That part mattered most—knowing each family would have a warm, filling meal waiting for them. We also set aside a separate plate for the volunteers, a small gesture to show appreciation for the work they do every day. Serving the soup felt simple, but meaningful. Bowls were filled, smiles were exchanged, and for a moment, the kitchen we had filled with the smell of cooking turned into a place of comfort and care. By the end of the night, the pots were empty, but the feeling stayed with us. It wasn't just about cooking dinner—it was about creating a small sense of home for families going through difficult times. And that's something that lingers long after the last dish is washed.
Cooking with Joy: Serving Up Comfort, One Meal at a Time - Sam J.
The kitchen was already warm when we arrived, but it wasn't just from the ovens. There was something else in the air—anticipation, maybe even a quiet kind of purpose. Today, we weren't just cooking a meal. We were showing up for families who needed a moment of comfort, a reminder that they weren't alone. Our "A-team" from the Kindness Collective gathered around the counters, sleeves rolled up and smiles ready. Someone tied on an apron backwards and we all laughed, breaking the ice in the best way possible. Music hummed softly in the background as we divided up tasks like a well-rehearsed crew—though plenty of us were just winging it. The menu was simple, but meaningful: roasted chicken, golden potatoes, and bright green broccoli. There's something honest about that kind of meal. It doesn't try too hard, it just nourishes. We seasoned the chicken with care, hands moving instinctively as if we all understood the assignment without needing to say it out loud. The potatoes were chopped with rhythmic precision—well, mostly. A few oddly shaped pieces made their way onto the trays, earning playful teasing from the group. The broccoli brought a pop of color to the prep tables, a small reminder that even the simplest things can feel vibrant when shared. As the food roasted, the kitchen filled with the kind of aroma that makes you pause. It wrapped around us—warm, savory, comforting. Conversations flowed just as easily. Stories were shared, jokes bounced from one side of the room to the other, and every now and then someone would stop, look around, and smile a little wider. Because we all felt it. This wasn't just about cooking. It was about connections. We carefully prepared the meal for the families to enjoy later on—making sure everything was ready, warm, and welcoming whenever they needed it. Because we knew that for many of them, this meal would come at the end of a long, emotional day. When everything was plated and set aside, there was a quiet shift in the room. The laughter softened into something more reflective. We knew that these meals would reach families going through some of their hardest days—parents balancing hope and exhaustion, children holding onto courage in ways far beyond their years. And somehow, that made the meal even more important. We didn't see every face that night, but we felt their presence in every step of the process. In every sprinkle of seasoning, every tray carefully placed in the oven, every shared glance that said, "This matters." Because it did. Moments like this are why we make it a point to come back—at least once a month—to cook, to serve, and to give back in a way that feels personal and real. It's a small act with a big heart behind it. We left the kitchen a little tired, a little messy, and completely full in the best way possible. Not from the food—but from the joy of giving, the strength of community, and the simple, powerful act of showing up.
Ladles of Love at Ronald McDonald House - Joshua K.
The wind was sharp that morning, the kind that nipped at your cheeks and made you grateful for warm kitchens and thicker coats. But inside the Ronald McDonald House of the Four States, the air was already beginning to change. It carried the quiet hum of hope that always seemed to live there woven between soft hallway footsteps, whispered conversations, and the steady rhythm of coffee brewing in the communal kitchen. That was the morning the Kindness Collective team showed up with arms full of groceries and hearts ready to serve. They did not arrive with fanfare. No big announcements. Just reusable bags filled with carrots, celery, onions, fresh herbs, and packages of chicken. They came for one reason: to make chicken noodle soup—nourishing, comforting, and ready whenever it was needed most. The kitchen quickly came alive. Cutting boards thudded gently against countertops. Knives moved in careful rhythm, slicing carrots into coins and celery into crescent moons. Someone laughed softly as they tried not to cry while chopping onions. A large stockpot filled with water began to simmer, releasing thin ribbons of steam that curled toward the ceiling. Chicken was seasoned and gently lowered into the pot. Vegetables followed, then garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. The aroma bloomed instantly warm, savory, familiar. It drifted down the hallway and wrapped itself around the house like a soft blanket. But this time, the team had a thoughtful plan. They knew hospital schedules were unpredictable. Families came and went at all hours—early mornings before procedures, late nights after long waits, moments when the kitchen might be quiet, but hunger and exhaustion were not. So instead of preparing just one shared meal, they prepared many. As the broth deepened into a rich golden hue and the egg noodles softened into tender curls, the team began lining up sturdy meal prep containers along the counter. Each one was carefully filled—ladle by ladle—with chicken, vegetables, noodles, and steaming broth. Lids were snapped on securely. Labels were written neatly. Some included small handwritten notes: "Made with love." "For whenever you need a warm bowl." "We're cheering you on." They filled container after container, creating ready-to-enjoy meals families could simply grab, heat, and savor later—whether that was after a 14-hour hospital day or during a quiet midnight moment when sleep would not come. A little boy in superhero pajamas wandered in, drawn by the smell. One volunteer invited him to help place stickers on the lids. He took the job seriously, pressing each sticker down firmly. "Now it's official," she told him with a wink. A mother leaned against the counter, watching the careful assembly. "This is perfect," she said softly. "Sometimes we do not know when we'll be back from the hospital. Knowing this will be here… it just helps." And that was the heart of it. The Kindness Collective team was not just cooking. They were thinking ahead. They were creating ease in a season filled with uncertainty. They were turning soup into reassurance. When the last container was sealed and placed neatly in the refrigerators, the shelves looked abundant rows of golden comfort waiting patiently. The team made sure instructions were clear and accessible. Heat. Stir. Breathe. Eat. Before leaving, they washed every dish, wiped every counter, and swept the floors. The kitchen looked peaceful again—but now it held something extra. Preparedness. Care. A tangible reminder that someone had shown up. Outside, the wind continued to blow cold across the parking lot. But inside, tucked behind refrigerator doors and stacked with intention, were meals made with steady hands and compassionate hearts. No speeches. No spotlight. Just quiet kindness, stored thoughtfully in meal prep containers—ready to nourish families whenever they needed it most. And sometimes, that kind of kindness lasts far beyond a single meal.
A Season of Warmth and Partnership - Sam J.
The morning, we arrived at Children's Haven of Southwest Missouri, the air carried that sharp edge that warns you winter isn't far behind. Our vehicle was packed tightly with boxes—132 brand-new coats in various sizes, ready to bring warmth and comfort to the children who call this special place home. As we carried the boxes inside, the staff welcomed us with the kind of smiles that come from people who do hard, meaningful work every single day. There's something sacred about places like this—where children are given safety, stability, and the space to simply be kids again. During our visit, we had the sweetest interaction with one of the little ones—just two or three years old. She quietly wandered off for a few moments and then came toddling back toward us, holding a piece of paper in her tiny hands. With soft determination, she handed it over. On the page was a coat—carefully colored purple. The crayon marks were bold and enthusiastic, the kind that only little hands can create. She had taken her time filling it in, making sure the color covered every part she could manage. It was simple. It was precious. And it was completely heartfelt. That purple coat on paper meant more than she probably realized. In that small act, she gave something back—a gesture of connection and gratitude that touched us deeply. As the snow fell days later and the temperatures dropped, we felt especially thankful for the partnership we shared with Children's Haven of Southwest Missouri through our Subaru Loves to Help community activation. Community isn't just about showing up once—it's about walking alongside organizations that make a lasting difference.
Preparing for the Future - Ashley C.
Most high school students feel pressure to decide what they want to do for the rest of their life. Ashley Carnes remembers that feeling well — because she didn't know either. After graduating in 2013, Ashley started working in the service BDC at Frank Fletcher Subaru simply looking for a job. Over time, it became clear she had found much more than that. She moved into roles as a service advisor and warranty administrator before eventually becoming the service manager. Along the way, she realized something important: the automotive industry offers a stable, rewarding career path — even for students who choose not to pursue a traditional four-year college degree. Now, Ashley works to make sure students in the community know those opportunities exist. Through a growing partnership with instructor Joe Flyn and the Joplin Franklin Technology Center (FTC), Ashley has helped connect local students with real career experiences inside a dealership. The most recent event was a dealership walk-through for FTC juniors and seniors enrolled in automotive technology and auto collision programs across six area high schools. Students rotated through four interactive stations — service advisors, technicians, parts, and sales — where they observed real customer interactions and asked questions while the department operated in real time. Rather than a presentation about the industry, they saw it firsthand. Each student also received information explaining what a dealership career can offer: benefits such as health insurance and 401(k), career demand, differences between dealerships and independent shops, options for entering the workforce immediately or continuing education, and the wide range of positions available beyond just being a technician. The walk-through is only one part of Ashley's continued involvement with FTC. She serves as a chair speaker for the advisory board, helped enroll students in Subaru University training, donated teardown components for classroom learning, judged SkillsUSA competitions, and assisted the program during ASE accreditation preparation. Because of that involvement, Ashley has become one of the first people Joe contacts when students are preparing to graduate and looking for guidance on where to apply. That connection has already led to success stories. Hunter Emmitt, a former FTC student currently attending Pittsburg State University, works as an intern at the dealership — shadowing the shop foreman during school breaks and assisting customers on Saturdays. Another graduate, Emma Goebel, has excelled in her role as an express technician. For Ashley, these hires represent something bigger than filling positions. By continuing the partnership with FTC, Frank Fletcher Subaru is helping students build careers in a place many of them never considered — the same place Ashley once simply applied for a job, and ultimately found her future.
