Built on Gratitude. Driven by Purpose.
At Duval Semi Trailers (DST), success has always been measured by more than growth and performance. It is measured by the ability to give back, support others, and invest in the communities that have supported us along the way.
Our Giving Back initiative, established in 2015, reflects a core belief that we are truly blessed by the success we have experienced and have a responsibility to use that success to help others. Each DST location plays an active role in identifying and supporting organizations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.
How It All Began
The idea for the DST Giving Back program was born out of gratitude. After a year of significant business growth following the challenges of the 2008 recession, leadership reflected on how fortunate the company was to be thriving while many others were still struggling.
That moment sparked a deeper question: How can we use our success to serve others?
From that conversation came a commitment to give back in a structured, intentional way. A formal program was created to allocate a portion of company profits toward organizations that are creating real change in the communities where we live and work.
Our Giving Philosophy
DST’s Giving Back program is rooted in gratitude and stewardship. We recognize that our growth is made possible by the trust of our customers, the dedication of our team, and the support of our communities. Giving back is our way of honoring that trust.
Each branch is empowered to support organizations that resonate with their team and reflect the needs of their local community. By doing so, we ensure that our contributions are both meaningful and impactful where they are needed most.
Our Giving Process
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Local Identification
Each branch identifies nonprofit organizations and causes within their community that align with their values or where team members are already personally involved.
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Evaluation & Approval
Organizations are reviewed to ensure they meet established Giving Back criteria. This helps confirm that contributions will be used responsibly and effectively to support their mission.
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Presentation & Understanding Impact
Branches present information about each organization or invite representatives to share their mission and impact. We take time to understand how our contributions will directly benefit those served.
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Allocation of Funds
Once approved by the Giving Back Committee, each branch votes on how to allocate its designated portion of funds to the selected organization.
The DST Grill Team
The DST Grill Team grew out of something simple, a desire to show up for the organizations and communities we care about in a more meaningful, hands-on way. What began as supporting a partner charity through a shared love of BBQ quickly evolved into an ongoing commitment to serving alongside the nonprofits and community partners making a difference every day.
Today, with Grill Team East and Grill Team West, DST brings its BBQ trailers directly to community events hosted by the organizations we support. More than just serving meals, these gatherings create opportunities for connection, conversation, and community. It’s a way for our team to stand beside our partners, contribute our time and energy, and help create experiences that bring people together.
The DST Grill Team isn’t all about competitions or catering, it’s about relationships. It reflects our belief that giving back is strongest when it’s personal, consistent, and rooted in genuine partnership with the organizations working tirelessly to uplift others.
Community Engagement
Beyond financial contributions, DST teams actively engage with supported organizations by presenting donations in person, serving at events, and building ongoing relationships within the community.
A Commitment That Continues to Grow
Giving back is not a one-time initiative. It is an ongoing commitment woven into the culture of DST. Each year, our teams continue to identify new opportunities to serve, support, and strengthen the communities where we live and work.
Meaningful Support
We are honored to use our success to help create opportunity, provide support, and make a meaningful difference — one partnership at a time.
At DST, giving back isn’t just something we do. It’s part of who we are.