Giving back to the community that drives them

This time of year, there is always a large focus on giving back. While it is something people strive for year-round, the importance of such an action increases exponentially during the holidays. As much as the holiday season is a time of love and joy for so many, it is also time when so many others go without.

Taking part in the many initiatives to provide food, gifts, and clothing to those without during the festive season acts as both a reminder to those in need that they are seen as well as helps the rest to develop more empathy and compassion.

For Bolton Honda, a dealership under the banner of Performance Auto Group, all of this rings true as they seek to support many initiatives both throughout the year and during the holidays.

“Giving back is one of Bolton Honda's most important core values,” explained Daniel Melvyn, general manager at the dealership. “We believe this is an important part of being good corporate citizens. We have always been a strong supporter of our community, and part of that stems from Performance Auto Group's beliefs.”

He added as businesses, their actions in giving back can play a role in helping encourage others to do so as well.

“Behaviours are contagious,” he said. “If people see you or others giving back to society in some shape or form, it is likely to be an idea that sticks with them. Many people who give back to society have been inspired by someone in their community or environment who had done so.”

Along with year-round initiatives Bolton Honda supports, like Caledon Meals on Wheels, they have contributed their support to a number of organizations over the next month. On the weekend, they participated in the Bolton Santa Claus Parade, helping spread the holiday cheer and supporting the Bolton Kin Club.

Throughout the first two weeks of December, they will also be supporting the Caledon Community Services Food Bank through the collection of non-perishable food items and a fundraiser during an event at their dealership for their 10th Anniversary celebration.

“Participating in various initiatives within the community helps everyone feel good about themselves and proud about where they work,” said Melvyn. “We are determined to make a visible difference our neighbours, employees, and our guests can all be proud of.”

From Dec. 6 until Dec. 8th, Bolton Honda will have extended hours during their celebration, opening from 9am-9pm. Along with a number of offers on their new vehicles, $100 for every vehicle purchased will be donated to the Caledon Community Services Food Bank.

“This is a time we can -- and need to -- remind ourselves how to be charitable to others, not only for this festive season but also throughout the year,” he added. “It is very important for us to remember the holidays are a time of gratitude and giving.”

Their goal is to help provide the food bank with some of their most-needed items as well as funds to assist with the provision of meals for those in need during the holidays.

Another organization Bolton Honda is assisting with this year is Home James, a program that provides a free designated driver for party-goers during the holidays.

“Contributing to safety on the road during the holidays is important to us,” said Melvyn. “Home James is an initiative we are proud to support because they actively work to cut down on accidents and ensure members of our community can arrive home safely after celebrating the season.”

The dealership has worked with Home James for a number of years by providing them with a shuttle to escort their team to their client's destination and provide transport for drivers after dropping the clients off.

“It's a pleasure to be able to continue the tradition of supporting this great program again this year,” he added.

Whether you're interested in buying a new car, or simply in supporting a great cause, Melvyn encourages members of the surrounding community to stop by during their celebration this week, meet the staff, and drop off some non-perishable food items for the Caledon Community Services Food Bank.

Combining their 10th Anniversary Celebration with support for the local food bank felt like a great fit with Bolton Honda's core values to give back, and a great way to kick off the holiday season.

“On behalf of Bolton Honda, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year!” added Melvyn.