A donation from House of Cars Cochrane has brought Cochrane Search and Rescue (SAR) one step closer to its fundraising goal to replace and upgrade an aging rescue unit.
The local car dealership set aside a portion of proceeds from each vehicle sold in June, resulting in a $1,350 donation to SAR.
“This support means more than words can express,” said SAR vice-president Yolanda Martens van Hilst. “We are so thankful to House of Cars and the community for this support, because this contribution will go directly to our fleet improvement project.”
“The unit being replaced has over 400,000 kilometres on it, so this brings us one step closer to making this happen.”
The organization remains about $30,000 short of its goal for the new unit.
“It’s a bigger vehicle that will support our search managers, and eventually, it will serve as a people mover to transport volunteers to the field,” said Martens van Hilst.
That’s a big step for the volunteer-based organization, which provides vital emergency services. Currently, SAR volunteers use their own vehicles to respond to callouts.
Nik Klassen, general manager of House of Cars Cochrane, said giving back has been part of the dealership’s mission from day one.
He said they’re pleased to continue supporting worthy causes through their program that links donations to vehicle sales.
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Support for SAR doesn’t end there. The dealership will also donate proceeds from its second annual FMX & Car Show, set for Sept. 1. SAR members will volunteer at the event.
The motocross show will feature Cochrane’s own FMX rider Cody Matechuk performing stunts. There will also be a car show with eye-catching rides, food trucks, face painting, balloon animals, live music—“the whole works,” said Klassen.
“All proceeds go toward Search and Rescue, and it’s a free event for the whole town,” he said. “We’ve had a ton of amazing sponsors help us put this show together, and I’m excited to make it happen.”