The Center for Leadership and Service at the University of Florida created the Purpose 20 Awards to honor the contributions made to Alachua County by local for-profit businesses. These 20 businesses provide invaluable cash and in-kind donations while supporting the community with efforts in environmental sustainability, serving as role models for change within the community and encouraging staff members to give their time to local causes. All of this work often goes unrecognized. The Center for Leadership and Service hopes that by recognizing these businesses, we inspire others through their example and demonstrate that business is about more than making a profit — it is also about having a purpose to build a better community.
“A business (whether small or large) is a TOOL to execute positive purpose and impact.”
– Collin Austin, founder
In 2006, New Scooters 4 Less went through major transitions; one of the most important changes altered the company’s focus to giving back to the Gainesville community and contributing to local organizations and charities. Every Christmas, the NS4L team purchases new toys for children who spend Christmas Day in the hospital. This is one of the larger initiatives created by NS4L, and they have provided thousands of dollars in toys and other items needed at UF Health Shands. Additionally, NS4L donates money and scooters to help organizations like Regal Theater’s Stars of Hope, March of Dimes, Kids Kicking Cancer, Relay for Life and the Child Advocacy Center. Owner Collin Austin models his leadership around servant leadership and believes greater rewards come from giving rather than receiving. He sees a business as a tool to execute a positive purpose and impact on the community.