HURRICANE MICHAEL RELIEF As the world watched, Hurricane Michael swept the coast of Florida and devastated the panhandle. Entire towns were wiped away, homes were destroyed, pets were displaced, schools were shut down and lives were lost. As the aftermath of this tragic storm unfolded, and the struggles the victims would face in the following months became clear, Sarasota Ford knew that sitting back and watch fellow Floridians suffer was simply not an option. Transforming their showroom in a supply donation center for those impacted by Hurricane Michael, Sarasota Ford rallied the community and collected donations of clothing, food, supplies, toiletries and countless other critical items for those affected by the storm. Members of the local community did not hesitate to step up, filling a Ford Transit Connect with donations; but Sarasota Ford decided to take it a step further. Led by owner Matt Buchanan, the dealership team filled an entire Ford Transit with donations of their own. When reflecting on the victims of Hurricane Michael, Buchanan had no reservations; “They’re part of everyone’s family. When a community is in need, it’s important we all team up and help one another.”
SARASOTA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL UNIFORMS When Matt Buchanan was introduced to Sarasota High School football Coach Spencer Hodges, there was an immediate connection. A former football player himself, Buchanan was interested to learn about the progress of the high school program and the needs of the department. Coach Hodges was already working hard on his Return The Pride program, involving players, parents and families in fundraising for the team. “In the new age we live in, it’s easy to get disconnected,” remarks Coach Hodges. “We’re trying to build a program that’s as community based as we possibly can.” Buchanan was immediately moved to support the Sarasota High School football team, and their need for new uniforms was the perfect opportunity to give back. Sarasota Ford supplied the entire department, both JV and Varsity teams, with all-new uniforms, surprising the players in their locker room this past September. “I hope a lot of other businesses and communities jump on the bandwagon,” says Buchanan. “Sports are a great uniter, and I think that the more we can celebrate these individuals that are working hard and doing things the right way, that’s what this is all about.”
New Vehicles Certified Pre-Owned State-of-the-Art Showroom Community Outreach Customer Service — Media Entertainment Room — Café Featuring Espressos and Freshly Baked Goods — Free Wi-Fi and Comfort
SARASOTA FORD
707 S. WASHINGTON BLVD |
SARASOTA, FLORIDA 34236
SARASOTAFORD.COM
| 888-349-4989
