Community initiatives: How Advantage Ford is making a difference
“My dad said to me, ‘you’ve got to give to get’. And that has proven to be invaluable.” – Gerry Wood
Advantage Ford in Calgary, part of the Wood Automotive Group, goes above and beyond the dealership to serve the community. The Wood family has established the organization on the values of giving back, service, and generosity. Take a look at how Wood Automotive Group makes a difference through the following programs.
The PREP Program
The Wood Automotive Group has been supporting the PREP Program for more than 25 years. The PREP Program is a community supporting parents with children that have down syndrome. Starting at two and a half years old, PREP supports and empowers children and teens through services including speech-language therapy, reading instruction, occupational therapy, early child services, and more. PREP provides family support, community connections, and early learning for parents in a welcoming and supportive space. Pride, encouragement, acceptance, and progress is what PREP stands for.
Kids’ Sport
The Wood Group funds Kids’ Sport, an organization that registers young athletes from low-income households in sports programs. Participating in an organized sport helps kids gain confidence, learn skills, and encourages a good work ethic that can shape their future. However, Kids’ Sport reports that 1 in 3 Canadian kids aren’t able to participate in organized sports, particularly kids from marginalized or remote communities. To cover the cost of registration and equipment, the organization provides grants between $250 – $500 through a confidential application process.
Comrie’s Sports Equipment Bank
Comrie’s Sports Equipment Bank provides no-cost equipment to qualified low-income kids in Southern Alberta. The Wood Automotive Group accepts equipment donations that can be dropped off at any dealership locations including Advantage Ford in Calgary, Alberta, Okotoks Ford Lincoln, Village Honda, Big 4 Motors, Driverz Auto, Cavalcade Auto Acceptance, and Woodridge Ford.
Foothills Country Hospice
The Foothills Country Hospice was established to provide a peaceful place for those who are terminally ill or on their end-of-life journey. The hospice is located 1.5km north of Okotoks on an eight-acre land with beautiful mountain views, a meditative labyrinth, trickling waterfall, gardens, and a forested walking path. Unlike a hospital that can feel cold and clinical, the facility is an atmosphere of compassion, care, and dignity for patients and their families during a challenging time.
Shaw Charity Classic
The Wood Automotive Group supports the Shaw Charity Classic, a charity golf tournament presented by Suncor. The event has raised more than $61 million for over 200 children and youth charities across Alberta.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is a Christian organization that was established in 1882 and has since grown to be one of the largest providers of social services in the country and around the world. The organization provides food, clothing, and practical assistance for children and families, shelter for homeless people, and rehabilitation for those suffering from addiction. The Wood Group has raised over $1.2 million in donations for the Salvation Army.