Surprising a firefighter with a vehicle giveaway, Young Ford Ogden and the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation will hold their fifth annual First Responder of the Year ceremony on July 17 at 10:30 a.m.
“As a foundation, this is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Tami Olsen, the director of Young Caring for Our Young. “We recognize the incredible role first responders play in our community, and we’re thrilled we get to honor them in this way.”
Hosted at their location on Wall Avenue, the dealership will hold a drawing to select a firefighter for the award. The winner will receive a free, one-year lease on a vehicle as well as a $500 gas card and insurance provided by Goldenwest Credit Union.
“This is my first year hosting this at our dealership, so I’m extremely excited for it,” said Jake Talbot, the general manager of Young Ford Ogden. “I know there’s a lot of members on my staff who’ve talked about how meaningful it is to them, and it’s not hard to see why. I’m grateful for this opportunity to give back to these individuals that do so much for our city.”
Each year, the giveaway alternates between awarding a firefighter and a police officer. The winner must be present to accept the prize. Police officer James Williams won the accolade last year, and was provided a 2023 Ford F-150 Lariat. In addition to the award, he was featured during the Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo.
This event coincides with the Young Automotive Group’s celebration of 100 years in business. Established by Seldon “Jack” Olsen, the company has grown from a single operation to over 30 automotive and powersports franchises across Utah, Idaho and Montana.
Young Ford Ogden first joined the Young Automotive Group in 2020. Since then, they’ve held not only this event, but contributed to community projects like the Ogden School Foundation’s family support center in Odyssey Elementary School.
“Every dealership at the Young Automotive Group is dedicated to delivering on their commitment to the community,” Talbot said. “As someone who’s been with the company for a long time, it’s one of my favorite things about it. We recognize the opportunity and role we have in making our area a better place.”
