Doing Right Spotlight 2023
Every year, the Doing Right Spotlight, supported by the Robert and Donna Martin Family, celebrates businesses that are making a real impact—helping their employees, supporting their communities, and creating a ripple effect of positive change.
In 2023, we proudly recognized Taylor Automotive Family, Kripke Enterprises, and Aly Sterling Philanthropy for their dedication to doing good. Their efforts—whether through community partnerships, philanthropy, or creating meaningful opportunities for others—remind us of the power of business to make a difference.
Watch their stories below and be inspired to continue the cycle of doing right.
Kripke Enterprises
Kripke Enterprises, founded in 1993 by Larry and Joni Kripke, has grown from a small metal brokerage company to a business with 68 employees across four states, generating nearly $375 million in sales. Prioritizing employee well-being, the company ensures a safe workplace and financial security, recognizing that stability outside of work impacts performance.
After learning that some employees lived in unsafe neighborhoods, Kripke launched a homeownership program, offering financial literacy training, down payment assistance, and mortgage support. This initiative has helped employees achieve personal goals, reinforcing the company’s belief that a strong, supportive culture leads to a dedicated and motivated workforce.
Taylor Automotive Family
Taylor Automotive has been a family-run business for 42 years, employing 340 people across seven dealerships. However, its true impact extends beyond numbers, as Steve Taylor and his family have built a culture of deep community involvement. Through partnerships with various organizations, they continuously support local initiatives, helping individuals in need and making a meaningful difference in their community. From hosting fundraising events at their dealerships to supporting local schools and arts programs, the Taylor family prioritizes giving back in ways that go far beyond selling cars.
Their initiatives include the Steve Taylor High School Stars, recognizing outstanding students, and the Steve Taylor Community Connection, which highlights individuals making a difference. They also support Connecting Kids to Meals, which provides millions of meals to children in need, and collaborate with the Toledo Art Museum and local schools. These programs create a ripple effect of positivity, inspiring others to give back. As they believe, “If you do good, you’ll be good,” and their actions reflect this philosophy every day, making Taylor Automotive a true pillar of the community.
Aly Sterling Philanthropy
Aly Sterling Philanthropy is a nationally recognized advisory firm specializing in philanthropy for families, corporations, and foundations. Founded 15 years ago, the firm helps clients define their "why"—identifying their passions, goals, and commitment to making a difference. They work with nonprofits of all sizes, guiding individuals and organizations in developing meaningful philanthropic strategies. Their approach emphasizes the intersection of purpose and action, encouraging clients to push beyond traditional giving models to create lasting impact within their communities and across generations.
The firm also leads by example, offering employees paid volunteer time, board service opportunities, and donation matching programs. By integrating philanthropy into their own culture, they demonstrate the power of giving back, both professionally and personally. Aly Sterling Philanthropy believes that businesses and individuals can maximize their potential by engaging stakeholders in their philanthropic efforts, ultimately fostering a ripple effect of positive change. Their work helps clients navigate their philanthropic journey, ensuring their values and purpose continue to make a meaningful impact well into the future.
Student Scholarships
In the spirit of doing right, there were 3 University of Toledo students awarded $250 scholarships in the names of each of the honorees. The scholarship winners were Grace Kim, Kevin Bishop, and Prathik Kandimalla.
