Joining Forces to Make a Difference
The Power Equipment Division at American Honda in Alpharetta, Ga., pooled their resources to raise funds for three local charities: Bald Ridge Lodge, The Drake House and Jesse’s House.
One of the fundraising events was Honda Power Equipment’s Charity Car and Motorcycle Show. Each vehicle was entered into a “People’s Choice” contest for attendees to vote on their favorites. Associates from the PE Division, American Honda Finance Corp., and other divisions, as well as retirees, paid a fee to enter their unique or antique car into a contest.
Additional funds were raised through a bake sale, silent auction and raffle. By the end of the event, they raised more than $3,000 for the charities. The Bald Ridge Lodge and Jesse’s House serve as homes for at-risk boys and girls. The Drake House offers support programs and housing for families in need in the Alpharetta area. The division also presented two EB3800 generators to the local fire and police departments.
“We combined the passion of the dozens of gearheads in the division with the strength of our internal associates and their love for cars and motorcycles,” said Will Walton, vice president of Power Equipment and Honda Marine at American Honda. “Associates, friends and retirees were delighted to assist and help plan.”
“The fundraiser was a great opportunity to meet gearheads from different Honda divisions while supporting the community through local charities,” said Weston Walter, AHFC customer account manager.
Other activities included a meet-and-greet with first responders and dogs available for adoption from local shelters.
“It was neat to see some of the rare Honda collectibles that some current and former associates have in their garages,” said PE Division Dealer Development Manager Alan Battin. “It made me want to expand my collection!”
The event, which started as an idea to combine fundraising efforts for charities they support regularly, grew into an engaging event for several good causes that the entire Alpharetta campus was able to enjoy.