Don K manager receives Patriot Award
Don K Whitefish General Manager Kevin Kaltschmidt honored by 2022 Patriot Award, flanked by James Abbott, lead new vehicle salesman and dealer, Don Kaltschmidt. (Courtesy photo)
Kevin Kaltschmidt, General Manager of Don “K” Whitefish dealership received the 2022 Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide range of internal programs including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families and granting leaves of absence if needed. Patriot Awards are granted to individual supervisors, not to an entire staff or an organization.
Kevin Kaltschmidt served in the United States Marines prior to joining the dealership which brings deeper respect and understanding of the challenges faced by members of the National Guard and Reserve.
James Abbott, an active member of the National Guard nominated Kevin for going out of his way to support his goals of honorable service to his nation while maintaining a successful career when not on duty.
Kevin Kaltschmidt said, “It is a real honor to receive this award, but I have to say that this is part of the DNA of Don “K” Whitefish. James has dedicated part of his life to his military career, and I want to support him to be successful in that goal. What is important to him is also important to me and enabling him to be successful outside of his work here at the dealership is a key tenant of my goal of creating a place where the best people want to work and where they can thrive.”
James Abbott said, “Kevin has been very supportive of my responsibilities to my military unit. When I needed a little extra time to meet those obligations he understood and was willing to rework my schedule so I could take care of those obligations which is essential to my ability to meet my commitments and also take care of my family.”
To receive a Patriot Award, an individual supervisor must be nominated by an active member of the National Guard or Reserve. It is based on support provided directly to the nominating service member and his or her family.
Don “K” Whitefish is a locally owned and community-involved dealership serving residents of the Flathead Valley for over 30 years.