Community philanthropist and dealership owner, Alfred “Al” E. Hendrickson, Sr., was honored with the Coral Springs Key to the City on Thursday, October 6 during a City Commission meeting. Hendrickson is also selected to take part in Broward County’s Pioneer Day for his contributions to Coral Springs and the wider South Florida community.
Hendrickson is a well-known founder and owner of Al Hendrickson Toyota in Coconut Creek and a 50+ year resident of Coral Springs who has made many contributions to the Coral Springs community, including supporting public safety initiatives, sponsoring community events, and donating time and money to numerous foundations and nonprofits.
When Hendrickson moved to Coral Springs in 1971, the city’s population was 7,800, only 1,000 names were listed in the paper phone book, and door-to-door mail delivery had just replaced the “Pony Express.” Through 45 years of new technologies, changes, and growth, Hendrickson has been a consistent and steadfast supporter of Coral Springs and beyond.
“Al is a household name in Coral Springs because of his reputation as a great salesman and the generous contributions he has made in our community,” said Commissioner Joy Carter. “As a Commission, there is no greater honor we can bestow than the Key to the City because it symbolizes the recipient is a trusted friend and respected leader. I am fortunate to call Al a friend and a true city pioneer.”
Hendrickson began his career with JM Family, working alongside the legendary philanthropist Jim Moran, where he spent 19 years in various positions. During this time, he was named Marketing Man of the Year by Toyota Motor Sales, was recognized by the National TV Bureau as producer of innovative TV commercials, and was a several-time recipient of the Southeast Toyota President’s Award for all-time record sales.
He opened his first Toyota dealership in Coconut Creek in 1989 with his son, Al Hendrickson, Jr., also opening a dealership right next door. The pair sold 460 cars in the first month, surpassing expectations. Today, Hendrickson Toyota is one of the largest Toyota dealers in the USA.
