When Christopher Grzybowski and his stepfather, Don Mammoser, first started their gas station/auto repair shop in 1976, they began their search for an organization that could be helpful to a new small business like theirs. It wasn’t long before they found the Automotive Technology & Energy Group. Over the last thirty-three years, Chris has served as an ATE board member, vice-president, and currently two-term president of the group.

Being committed and involved
“The connections I made in the Auto Group gave me insight into the auto repair industry. Like everyone starting out, I thought business would grow solely by pushing myself to work harder, with longer hours. My life was not really my own. I got to thinking about how I was running my business and decided to make some adjustments. By the time Don’s Auto was ready to expand, I was able to take the advice and experiences of others in the group and use it to make sound operational and financial decisions.”

Changes for Don’s Auto included adding their first employee, Dave, in 1978, and then Chris’s brother Andy, who later became the third owner. They bought property, have added on to their building and kept up with the latest technology. With 6 top-notch employees total, they claim “bumper-to-bumper” service. When did he feel like Don’s Auto was truly a success? “Gradually, over the last 10 years. You start adding up your accomplishments and realize you’ve made quite the impact.” As for working with Don his whole career, Chris says he is the people part and Don is the numbers. “I couldn’t ask for a better teacher, partner or friend. I couldn’t imagine being in business with anyone else.”

Family Man
Many find it difficult to be in business with family, but somehow the Grzybowski family has found a way to make it work. Chris has five kids, each of whom has put in time at the shop. Brian, 26, is a full-time employee, and Jacob, 30, worked there until last year. Christina, 34, Jessie, 31, and Stacy, 22, have each helped in some way over the years, whether it’s been painting, cleaning or customer service. When they aren’t working together, they are partying together. And his four grandkids keep him hopping. Chris credits his successful family life to his late wife Charleen. “She was an exceptional mother and partner.”

Golf. Donate. Volunteer.
Don’s Auto has been an active member and sponsor in the community. Whether it’s Rotary, Kiwanis, High School or Boys Assn., they believe that giving back to your community really does make a difference. Chris and his family are hosting the 2nd Annual Charleen Grzybowski Golf Event on Monday, Sept. 13, 2010. The Charleen Grzybowski Fund for Stroke Research has raised over $10,000 in the last three years, benefitting the Stroke Center at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo and Upstate NY Transplant Services. For more information, go to www.golf4charleen.com or look for it on Facebook. It’s a wonderful cause on behalf of a wonderful woman. ATE is a proud sponsor of this event.

Christopher Grzybowski
president

Don’s Auto
1440 Electric Avenue
Lackawanna, NY 14218

(716) 826-0676 phone
donsautoinc@verizon.net
Member Since 1971