Providing 650 students with school supplies, the Young Automotive Group’s Hyundai and Genesis of Ogden dealerships partnered with the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation to host their Fill the Backpack event at Heritage Elementary School on Aug. 15.
“It’s been amazing to engage with the community in this unique way,” said John Burgett, Young Hyundai and Genesis of Ogden’s general manager. “Our team is dedicated to making a difference, and we’re grateful for opportunities like this to connect with the people of Ogden as more than just a business.”
An event held during back to school night, the dealerships parked cars outside of the Ogden elementary — each carrying a trunk-load of items for class. Students then visited the vehicles to fill their backpack with school supplies.
“Over 85% of our families are at or below the poverty line,” said Jim Mieure, Heritage Elementary’s principal. “This generous donation will make a huge difference for our students. It means one less thing for our parents to worry about.”
This event took place one day after Young Caring for Our Young finished their pantry pack challenge, which supplied 15,000 children in need across northern Utah with two-day meal kits. The nonprofit, who is the charitable branch of the Young Automotive Group, has taken part in several Weber County efforts this year — including vehicle giveaways for an exceptional teacher and a first responder as well as events to gather and assemble food donations.
In addition to the Fill the Backpack event, Young Hyundai, Genesis of Ogden and the foundation will work together in November for their Heroes Fight Hunger initiative, which will provide Thanksgiving meals to families experiencing hunger.
“We love working with our Ogden dealerships like Young Hyundai and Genesis of Ogden. They are so invested in their communities, and they are committed to making a difference,” said Tami Olsen, Young Caring for Our Young’s director. “They strive to be advocates for Ogden, and their impact can be felt throughout the city.”
Along with engaging in charitable efforts, the Young Automotive Group is currently celebrating 100 years of business. Established in 1924 by entrepreneur Seldon “Jack” Olsen, the company has over 30 automotive and powersports franchises across Utah, Idaho and Montana.
Young Caring for Our Young was founded by the Young Automotive Group’s leaders in 2007. Since its inception, the nonprofit has provided communities with over $6.5 million, and developed several initiatives in multiple areas.
“It’s incredible to be a part of a company that engages in philanthropic endeavors,” said Burgett. “It helps the workplace become more than somewhere to clock-in and clock-out at. Events like these provide opportunities to make a difference, and they give us some insight on what it takes to impact a community.”