×

More Than a Car: How Father Cleo & Mercedes-Benz Drive Community Impact

Sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Baton Rouge

For more than 20 years, Rev. Cleo Milano has been a steadfast customer and cherished member of the Mercedes-Benz of Baton Rouge family. His journey with Mercedes-Benz began with a generous gift – a Mercedes sedan that marked the start of a relationship built on trust, mutual respect and shared values. Today, this bond is stronger than ever, reflecting a legacy of loyalty that goes beyond the purchase of a car.

Father Cleo’s loyalty to Mercedes-Benz is rooted in the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality. For Milano, pastor of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, choosing Mercedes has always been about more than driving a luxury vehicle. It’s about ensuring his safety on the road and appreciating the timeless design that has always been the hallmark of Mercedes-Benz.

“I tend to like things that are established, timeless classics. From my years of studying in Europe and admiring Mercedes almost 50 years ago, it’s always just been iconic,” Father Cleo says. “But today, I think it’s moved from beyond just a luxury car to a car whose engine, ride and practicality can be greatly appreciated.”

What began as a simple gift has evolved into a meaningful relationship with the Mercedes-Benz sales team. Father Cleo’s visits to the dealership are marked by warmth and camaraderie, as he’s become a familiar and beloved figure among the staff. From the moment he met his sales consultant, Lynn Whitty, her warmth, personality and sense of service to others led to a great bond of friendship over the years.

Father Cleo’s involvement doesn’t stop at purchasing vehicles; Father Cleo has led the opening prayer at staff meetings, blessed customer appreciation dinners, and he even officiated the wedding of a top Mercedes-Benz of Baton Rouge executive. These personal connections underscore the deep sense of community that Mercedes-Benz fosters with its customers.

Just as Father Cleo has supported the dealership and its staff, Mercedes-Benz has consistently given back to the community that he serves. The company is a proud supporter of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School, where its contributions to the school’s Annual Auction and its legendary School Fair are a testament to their commitment to education and community service.

“Mercedes-Benz definitely shares part of the exceptional spirit in this town of successful businesses that are interested in sharing that success with schools and communities to make Baton Rouge a better place to live, to work and to raise a family,” Father Cleo says.

The story of Father Cleo and Mercedes-Benz is one of loyalty, shared values and a mutual desire to make a difference. For Mercedes-Benz, having a customer like Father Cleo is an honor, and the company is proud to support his efforts in the community.

Mercedes-Benz of Baton Rouge is located at 10949 Airline Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816. Give the team a call at 225.424.2241 or visit mbobr.com.