Helping Hands: KOINONIA

Community

As the back-to-school season approaches, the anticipation of academic achievement is coupled with the concern of meeting the financial demands that come with it. Families often find themselves grappling with the costs of school supplies, clothing, and other essentials that set their children up for success.

In Fairfax County, a beacon of hope shines through – the KOINONIA Cares Organization. This local nonprofit, which traces its roots back to the 1960s, is dedicated to supporting families in need throughout the year. Judy Davis, the executive director of KOINONIA, shared that their doors are open to around 40 families on a regular basis. Beyond offering essential food and clothing items, KOINONIA extends a helping hand that touches the lives of thousands of community members.

The name KOINONIA, meaning “sharing,” reflects the organization’s core principle – to share resources, kindness, and support with those who need it the most. One such family, represented by Angie, a mother of two young children, expressed deep gratitude for KOINONIA’s assistance. “My family is very happy because they help with food and clothing,” she shared.

This remarkable work is made possible by the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of the community. Donations of essential items help KOINONIA deliver tangible impact to the lives they touch.

Recognizing the vital role KOINONIA plays in the community, Easterns Automotive Group partnered with ABC 7 News to lend a helping hand. Joel Bassam, from Easterns Automotive Group, had the privilege of surprising KOINONIA with a $2,200 donation through the 7News Helping Hand initiative.

“This will be put to good use, and I have plans,” Davis exclaimed gratefully. “It will help us in a number of ways. First of all, more assistance to the families that need it. There are a lot of things that don’t get donated like meat, eggs and anything that is perishable.”

The impact of KOINONIA’s efforts is growing, and the organization is actively seeking a new space to accommodate its expanding reach. The dedication to fulfilling the needs of families in Fairfax County remains unwavering.

You can join hands with KOINONIA Cares Organization and make a difference. Discover more about their impactful work and how you can contribute by clicking here. Together, we can uplift our community and create brighter futures for those in need.

Are You a First-Time Jeep Buyer Looking for Comfort? Test Drive a Jump Compass

Different Vehicle Makes
2018 Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass was first introduced to the public in 2006 and has since established itself as a comfortable compact crossover SUV that sits between the subcompact Renegade and the larger Cherokee in Jeep’s lineup.

While some trims of the Compass are trail rated, the vehicle is best suited for first-time Jeep buyers and those who drive primarily on the highway and city streets.

At Easterns Automotive, we boast an ever-growing inventory of Jeeps, including the Compass. Be sure to stop by a DMV dealership near you to take one for a test drive.

What Are the Four Basic Models of the Jeep Compass?

The four models of Compass available for purchase in North America are Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk.

Jeep Compass Sport

The Jeep Compass Sport is the entry point into the Jeep Compass lineup, offering a blend of practicality and value. With its rugged yet refined exterior design, the Compass Sport carries the iconic Jeep styling cues, including the signature seven-slot grille and bold wheel arches as well as:

  • A four-cylinder engine
  • Infotainment system
  • All-wheel drive
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Cloth seating surfaces
  • A seven-speaker Boston Acoustics premium sound system
  • Basic safety features such as airbags, stability control, antilock brakes and traction control

Jeep Compass Latitude

The Latitude trim is often positioned as a mid-range option. It typically adds more comfort and convenience features compared to the base model. This trim usually includes:

  • 2.4L four-cylinder engine
  • Four-wheel drive
  • Upgraded exterior styling elements, including body-color exterior mirrors, roof rails and alloy wheels
  • Safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and other driver assistance technologies
  • Enhanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen and advanced connectivity features, as well as additional USB ports in some vehicles for convenience
  • Manual or automatic transmission option

Jeep Compass Limited

The Jeep Compass Limited epitomizes a harmonious fusion of luxury, capability and modernity within the Jeep Compass lineup. As a distinguished mid-range trim, it strikes an impressive balance between refinement and adventure, catering to those who seek a sophisticated driving experience with the renowned Jeep versatility.

The Limited trim includes additional features like:

  • Sunroof
  • Unique leather-trimmed seats
  • Unique alloy wheels
  • Side-impact air bags
  • Keyless entry and security alarm

Jeep Compass Trailhawk

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk stands as the embodiment of rugged adventure and off-road mastery within the Jeep Compass lineup. As the most trail-focused trim, it caters to those who crave the thrill of venturing beyond paved roads while enjoying the comfort of a versatile compact SUV.

The Compass Trailhawk comes equipped with:

  • The Compass Trailhawk features an advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system that is specifically tuned for off-road performance. It offers multiple terrain modes, allowing the driver to adjust the vehicle’s settings to match various road and trail conditions.
  • Selec-terrain traction management tailored to different terrains, such as snow, sand, mud and rock.
  • Enhanced suspension that provides greater articulation and ground clearance
  • Skid plates that shield the undercarriage from potential damage during off-road excursions.
  • Red tow hooks to provide recovery points in case the vehicle gets stuck.
  • Off-road design elements
  • Advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and more to enhance safety both on and off the road

The features in the different trims of the Jeep Compass may vary based on the specific model and year.

Test Drive a Preowned Jeep Compass at Easterns Automotive

If you’ve found a Jeep Compass you’re interested in on our website, be sure to check the description or call us at (888) 650-4775 for specific details or to schedule a test drive.

Is the Ford Escape a Good Car?

Different Vehicle Makes
Used ford escape

As a compact SUV, the Ford Escape offers a blend of practicality, versatility and performance that appeals to a wide range of drivers, whether it’s their first car or just one of many. Whether you’re seeking a reliable family vehicle or an adventurous companion for outdoor activities, the Ford Escape has something to offer any driver.

Key Selling Points of the Ford Escape

  • Design and Versatility: The Escape has a spacious interior that can accommodate both passengers and cargo with ease. Depending on the trim level, your vehicle may also be outfitted with leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free power liftgate.
  • Engine Options and Performance: This SUV gives drivers a choice of engines to suit different preferences and driving needs, including efficient hybrid models. Whether you prioritize fuel economy or spirited performance, there is an engine variant that can meet your needs.
  • Advanced Safety Features: The Escape reflects Ford’s commitment to safety, as it has integrated various advanced safety features into its design to protect occupants and prevent accidents. Safety features typically include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring, among others.
  • Technology and Connectivity: Newer models of this SUV include an intuitive infotainment system with features like touchscreen displays, smartphone integration (such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), voice commands and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The Ford Escape has impressive gas mileage. Even its beginning trim level has 27 MPG on city streets and 33 MPG on highways. The Ford Escape’s hybrid powertrain option boasts even greater fuel efficiency, with 44 MPG for city driving and 37 MPG on highways.
  • All-Wheel Drive Capability: Offering all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option on many of its trims, the Ford Escape guarantees enhanced traction and stability in challenging weather, road conditions or off-road ventures.
  • Reliability: The Ford Escape can generally last drivers up to 250,000 miles, which averages a 20-year lifespan. The vehicle’s longevity and excellent resale value make it a great long-term vehicle purchase choice.

Best Ford Escape Years as Ranked by Value

2015

The 2015 Ford Escape ranked second among Affordable Compact SUVs in that year and was nominated for the 2015 Best Compact SUV for Families award – in large part due to its minimal maintenance needs, expansive interior and impressive handling.

2019

The 2019 Escape builds upon the strengths of its predecessors, introducing a six-speed automatic transition, greater towing capabilities and a 1.5-liter engine that enhances fuel efficiency.

Ford Escape Years for Pre-Owned Car Shoppers to Avoid and Why

While the Ford Escape has been regarded as a reliable vehicle by many, there are a few model years that car buyers looking for a pre-owned vehicle might want to skip:

2013 – The 2013 model year faced a recall due to potential engine overheating issues, which could lead to a fire hazard. The risk is mitigated if the owner at the time headed the recall notice and had their vehicle fixed.

2014 – Similar to the 2013 model year, the 2014 Escape faced a recall related to engine coolant leaks. This issue could cause the engine to overheat, potentially leading to further complications. If you’re considering a 2014 model, you should conduct a careful and thorough inspection and maintenance before buying to ensure the vehicle has had the necessary recall maintenance performed.

Like Any Car, the Ford Escape Has Its Hits and Misses

The Ford Escape is cost-effective while still being fun to drive, with enhanced comfort and technology to make any trip entertaining.

While the Escape provides a comfortable ride on most road surfaces, some passengers have reported a slightly firm suspension. If you prioritize a plush, cushioned ride, you may want to test-drive the Escape to ensure it meets your expectations.

Overall, the Ford Escape has enjoyed a long production run because it has gained many loyal adherents. SUV shoppers frequently gravitate to Ford Escape models due to their exceptional reliability, value, driving performance and functionality. Chances are you won’t be let down by a pre-owned Ford Escape.

We’ll Help You Find the Optimal Pre-Owned Vehicle That Checks All Your Boxes

Whether you’re looking for a reliable Ford Escape or something smaller, the team at Easterns Automotive Group will make sure you walk away with the perfect car for you. Browse our collection of pre-owned vehicles in DC, Maryland and Virginia or online with the help of our personal car concierge. We will work hard to make sure you find a car that exceeds your expectations.

Contact us today or visit one of our eight locations to learn more.

Helping Hands: Hands on Harvest

Community,

In the heart of Fairfax County, a local initiative is sowing the seeds of community nourishment. Stacey Evers, the visionary behind Hands On Harvests, launched this Northern Virginia nonprofit in response to the pandemic’s heightened food insecurity. Founded in May 2020, this grassroots movement aims to tackle hunger by providing fresh produce to food banks across Fairfax County.

The inspiration behind Hands On Harvests emerged from the dramatic spike in food demand during the pandemic. Stacey Evers, who also serves on the Fairfax Food Council Steering Committee, recognized the urgency to address the 400% increase in need. Evers knew that ensuring access to fresh and nutritious food was crucial for the community’s well-being.

The organization’s impact is felt not just in the increase of gardens flourishing across apartment complexes, but also in the lives they touch. Evers explains that each 4×8 plot is nurtured by local residents, fostering a sense of ownership and pride. With a growing waitlist and plans for two new community gardens, Hands On Harvests continues to expand its reach.

Yet, Hands On Harvests is more than just a garden project. In the past year, they supplied over 20,000 pounds of produce to 26 local food banks. Their commitment to addressing the needs of Fairfax County is unwavering.

Recognizing the significant work of Hands On Harvests, Easterns Automotive Group partnered with 7News to extend a Helping Hand. Joel Bassam, representing Easterns, highlighted the organization’s holistic approach and dedication to community development. “We want to donate $2,200 to your cause so that you can continue to help people gain life skills and do amazing things in the community,” Bassam affirmed.

Stacey Evers expressed her gratitude for the donation, envisioning the ways in which it could enhance Hands On Harvests’ impact. She acknowledged the profound significance of the contribution, emphasizing its potential to drive positive change.

Beyond community gardens, Hands On Harvests is also nurturing future generations’ connections with farming and agriculture through innovative programs. As the organization continues to cultivate fresh produce and hope, its dedication to uplifting the Fairfax County community remains steadfast.

Helping Hands: Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats

Community

At Eastern Motors, we believe in the power of community and the positive impact that small acts of kindness can have. In Northern Virginia, a remarkable nonprofit called Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats is making waves by transforming the lives of young adults with different abilities, all while whipping up delectable dog treats in an Alexandria church kitchen.

As soon as you step into the Pawfectly Delicious kitchen, nestled within an Alexandria church, you’re enveloped in the comforting scent of ginger and cinnamon. Amidst the inviting aroma, the dedicated team of differently abled employees crafts each dog treat with care and enthusiasm, marking the beginning of something truly magical, according to Anne Tuccillo, the Executive Director of the nonprofit.

For Emma Franken, one of Pawfectly Delicious’ employees, the experience is about more than just baking dog treats. “I like working with other special needs kids and getting to know more people,” she shares with a smile. During their baking sessions, the church buzzes with activity as the team rolls, shapes, and bakes all-natural dog treats. These treats are beloved by both furry companions and their human friends.

Anne Tuccillo, along with her son Bryan, co-founded Pawfectly Delicious. Their vision goes beyond crafting delicious dog treats; it’s about providing meaningful employment opportunities to young adults with disabilities. “We have adult children who have aged out of the school system, and as hard as the school system has tried to transition them into some type of job, there aren’t a lot of employers willing to take the chance on training someone who is differently abled,” Anne explains.

Pawfectly Delicious started its journey in Anne and Bryan’s home kitchen, initially driven by volunteers. However, the demand grew, and in 2021, they achieved a significant milestone – generating enough revenue to start compensating their dedicated team. “Our biggest accomplishment was in 2021 – we had enough revenue we could start paying our people,” Anne proudly shares.

The heartwarming story of Pawfectly Delicious caught the attention of 7News and Easterns Automotive Group. United by a shared commitment to uplift the community, we collaborated to offer a 7News Helping Hand. Through a $2,200 donation, we aimed to bolster the impactful work that Anne, Bryan, and the entire team are doing.

“I’ll tell you after working so hard last night on submitting the grant, I was like, ‘Why am I doing this?’ Now I know why and it’s because of people like you and the community to help us make the world a better place, so thank you,” Anne expressed gratefully upon receiving the donation.

The support from Easterns Automotive Group is more than a monetary contribution; it’s a vote of confidence in the profound impact that Pawfectly Delicious is making. With this donation, Pawfectly Delicious will continue to provide employment opportunities for its current team members and potentially extend its reach to empower even more individuals.

At Easterns, we are honored to be a part of this incredible journey of empowerment and transformation. Through initiatives like the 7News Helping Hand, we strive to foster positive change in our community, one act of kindness at a time.

Helping Hands: Uncut Youth

Community, Uncategorized

Prom season is a time of excitement and anticipation for many high school students across the DMV. However, for some, the cost of a prom dress can be a significant barrier to fully enjoying this special event. Uncut Youth has been on a mission to alleviate the financial burden of prom dresses by generously giving away dozens of free dresses to students in need. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, many young girls in the community can now attend prom with confidence and joy.

Volunteers like Shari Morris are at the heart of this incredible initiative, ensuring that girls of all sizes find the perfect dress. They’ve even included brand-new dresses that are waiting to make someone’s prom night extra special. Recognizing the importance of looking and feeling their best on this significant occasion, Uncut Youth has created a one-stop shop for high school girls to find everything they need for prom night. From dresses and shoes to accessories, they’ve thoughtfully curated a selection that brings smiles to the faces of young students.

Founder Laurese Gerald established Uncut Youth two years ago, driven by her passion to provide support and mentorship to teenage girls throughout the DMV. She knows that prom and graduation are pivotal moments in a young person’s life, and through Uncut Youth, she strives to be the trusted mentor many of them need.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we were deeply inspired by the impactful work of Uncut Youth, and we knew we had to contribute to their mission. As part of our ongoing commitment to the community, we surprised Uncut Youth and its volunteers with a 7News Helping Hand.

The 7News Helping Hand not only symbolizes our appreciation for their efforts but also enables them to expand their reach and serve more young people in need. By providing additional resources, we hope to support their community initiatives, outreach programs, and future endeavors. Thank you to Uncut Youth for making a positive impact in the lives of so many young individuals, and thank you to our dedicated team members and customers who make it possible for us to give back to the community we cherish.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we are not just about selling cars; we are about creating moments that matter and shaping a brighter future for all.

Stay tuned for more heartwarming stories of how we continue to uplift and support our community!

#EasternsAutomotive #PromDreams #CommunityOutreach #7NewsHelpingHand #EmpoweringYouth

Helping Hands: Asian American Lead

Community

At Eastern Motors, we recognize the importance of highlighting and supporting underserved communities. Last May, during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we had the honor of teaming up with Joel Bassam and 7News to surprise AALEAD (Asian American Youth Leadership Empowerment and Development) with a Helping Hand.


AALEAD is a remarkable organization dedicated to shaping the lives of low-income Asian youth in the Washington, D.C., region. Their year-round efforts in providing after-school programs, summer programs, and mentoring opportunities create a safe and empowering space for these young individuals.


As Akil Vohra, President of AALEAD, aptly says, “We’re here together. We really want to help the AAPI community and develop the next generation of leaders.”


To celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and support AALEAD’s impactful work, Joel Bassam of Eastern Motors surprised them with a generous donation of $2,200. This contribution will directly contribute to the programs and field trips that benefit the AAPI youth in the community.


“We want to support your program by donating $2,200 so you can keep supporting D.C. youth. Keep doing the amazing work that you are doing,” Bassam expressed.


Eastern Motors is honored to be a part of this journey, standing alongside AALEAD in empowering and uplifting the AAPI community. Let’s continue to celebrate diversity, foster inclusivity, and nurture the next generation of leaders.

Helping Hands: Equality NoVa

Community, Uncategorized

At Easterns Automotive Group, we are proud to recognize and celebrate the incredible efforts of community organizations like Equality NoVa, dedicated to uplifting the LGBTQ+ community in Northern Virginia. Recently, we had the privilege of teaming up with 7News to surprise Equality NoVa with a Helping Hand, further supporting their valuable work.

Daniel Hays, a passionate Arlington resident, has been an integral part of Equality NoVa, formerly known as Arlington Gay Lesbian Alliance. As the vice president, Hays has been committed to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ community members and allies, creating safe spaces, organizing book clubs, drag show benefits, and political Town Halls.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in the power of giving back to the community, which is why we stand in solidarity with Equality NoVa. Hays’s personal journey, overcoming mental illness with the support of the drag queen and LGBTQ+ community, inspired us to lend our Helping Hand.

Equality NoVa relies solely on donations to sustain their impactful work, as they have zero paid staff. We were thrilled to offer our support to ensure their continued growth and expanded community outreach. Together, we can spread love, acceptance, and create a world where everyone is embraced for who they are.

As Hays beautifully puts it, “Right now it’s important that we are out there visibly but that we don’t respond to the hate with hate. We have to respond to the hate with love.”

Join us in celebrating the work of Equality NoVa and their dedication to promoting equality, inclusivity, and positive change. Let’s continue supporting organizations that make a difference in our community.

Helping Hands: Safe Space NOVA

Uncategorized

As we embrace the spirit of Pride Month, Easterns Automotive Group teamed up with 7News on this Helping Hands to bring a burst of joy to Safe Space NOVA. Recognizing the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, Easterns Automotive is determined to make a difference. Joining forces with 7News, we proudly surprised Safe Space NOVA with a heartfelt gesture of support.


To kick off Pride Month with a celebration of inclusivity and support, Joel Bassam, President of Easterns Automotive Group, expressed his admiration for Safe Space NOVA. He said, “What better way to kick off Pride Month than by highlighting an amazing organization like Safe Space NOVA? We want to support you and the programs you run in the LGBTQ+ community by donating $2,200 so you can keep supporting the youth in our area. Keep doing the amazing work that you are doing.”


With this heartfelt donation, we’re proud to support their vital work in providing a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ youth in Northern Virginia. Let’s stand together to celebrate love, acceptance and positively impact our community.

Looking for a Versatile and Family-Friendly Vehicle?

Different Vehicle Makes
2018 GMC Terrain SLT

The GMC Terrain is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by General Motors under the GMC brand. The 2010 GMC Terrain was the first in a line of increasingly advanced and functional SUVs. The Terrain is designed to offer a combination of style, comfort, advanced technology and versatility in a more compact package compared to the larger GMC SUVs.

If you’re looking for a visually appealing, family friendly SUV, the GMC Terrain may be an option worth exploring.

What Are Some Common Trim Levels Available for the GMC Terrain?

  • L: The base trim often referred to as the “SL” comes with essential features and serves as an entry-level option. It typically has a simplified set of features while still offering the core GMC experience.
  • SLE: The “SLE” trim adds more features and options compared to the base trim. It typically includes enhanced technology, comfort features and additional styling elements.
  • SLT: The “SLT” trim represents a mid-range option that offers more premium features and advanced technology. The standard SLT trim includes leather upholstery, advanced infotainment and added convenience features.
  • Denali: The Denali trim is the top-tier offering for GMC vehicles, including the Terrain. It represents the epitome of luxury and comes with the highest level of features, premium materials and advanced technology. Denali trims often have unique styling cues as well.

What Engine Does the GMC Terrain Have?

The standard GMC Terrain features a 1.5L four-cylinder engine. Some trims come with a turbocharged version of the engine, meaning the vehicle has improved performance without significantly increasing the engine’s physical size.

What Makes the GMC Terrain a Family-Friendly SUV?

Spacious interior: The Terrain offers ample interior space, providing comfortable seating for both passengers and cargo. Families can enjoy sufficient legroom, headroom and storage capacity for their needs.

Safety features: The Terrain comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These features help enhance driver awareness and safety for both the driver and passengers.

Connectivity and entertainment: Modern families value connectivity, and many Terrain models offer advanced infotainment systems with features like touchscreen displays, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and multiple USB ports. This keeps everyone entertained and connected on the go.

Comfortable ride: The Terrain’s suspension and interior design contribute to a comfortable ride quality, ensuring that family members of all ages can enjoy a smooth and pleasant journey.

Family-friendly seating: Many modern Terrain trims feature power-adjustable seats, heated front seats and optional leather upholstery. These amenities enhance comfort for passengers during longer drives.

Versatile storage: The Terrain includes versatile storage solutions like split-folding rear seats and a flat cargo floor. This allows families to accommodate both passengers and larger items like strollers, sports equipment or groceries.

Available all-wheel drive: Families can benefit from the Terrain’s available all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability in adverse conditions.

Cabin quietness: A quiet cabin reduces fatigue during long trips and allows passengers to converse comfortably. The Terrain is designed to minimize road and wind noise for a more peaceful ride.

Safety ratings: The GMC Terrain often receives high safety ratings from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), providing families with added peace of mind.

Family-focused trims: Some Terrain trims offer specific family-friendly features such as rear-seat entertainment systems, additional rear-seat USB ports and more.

Browse Our Inventory of GMC Terrain Trims and Schedule a Test Drive

At Easterns Automotive, we understand the importance of finding the right vehicle that matches your preferences. Check our current inventory and see if we have a GMC Terrain that meets your needs.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re here to ensure you have a seamless and satisfying test drive experience. If you’d like to take one of our available preowned GMC Terrains for a drive or explore similar SUVs, don’t hesitate to call 888-650-4775 or simply visit one of our dealerships in person.