Planet Ford Honours World Autism Day with Shining Through
Planet Ford Honours World Autism Day with Shining Through
Posted on April 2, 2016
On Saturday, April 2, 2016, Planet Ford held an inspiring event in honour of World Autism Awareness Day. The event was held in partnership with the Shining Through Centre, a leading not-for-profit charitable organization aiming to enhance the lives of children with autism. The celebration was attended by over 60 people, with families from across the GTA coming in to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Planet Ford's staff decorated the dealership with official autism awareness colours, including royal blue and yellow balloons and multi-coloured puzzle ribbons. They also arranged free activities and refreshments for everyone, and children could be seen lining up for face-painting, balloon-making and fresh popcorn throughout the event. A silent auction was also held on the day to raise funds for the Shining Through Centre, with people bidding on items like five signed Toronto Maple Leaf jerseys and one signed Toronto Raptors jersey.
According to Planet Ford General Manager Andre Marchese, the fundraising element was secondary to the event this year, as its primary focus was to create awareness about autism. Nonetheless, the silent auction managed to generate over seven hundred dollars for the Shining Through Centre. Marchese said that he intends to hold the event on an annual basis, with next year's one focused more on raising funds. "I believe autism will one day be curable, but it requires increased funding and continuous awareness initiatives. Schools such as the Shining Through Centre have proven that autistic students can learn and develop exponentially with the right support, and therefore such organisations must be helped," said Marchese.
He said the Shining Through Centre was a tremendous asset to autistic children and their families. "It is truly a place where passionate, selfless teachers pour their love and support into autistic children. The centre's founding members are all parents of children living with autism, and they should all be lauded for their vision and sacrifice," said Marchese.
The event concluded with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony, which symbolised the development of a new relationship between Planet Ford and the Shining Through Centre. The event was a part of Performance Auto Group's Drive Change initiative, to ensure that our organization gives back visibly to the communities which we serve.
Author: Performance Auto Group