Gathering families together for a wizardry-themed food drive, Young Mazda Ogden partnered with local organizations to provide donations to Catholic Community Services, the Ogden School Foundation and the Davis Education Foundation during their Cast A Spell on Hunger event on Jan. 25.

“We’re incredibly thrilled with how this event turned out,” said Ryan Albert, general manager at Young Mazda. “Our dealership’s been hosting Cast A Spell for nearly a decade, and we’re always grateful to be a part of something that rallies this incredible community together.”

While arriving at the event, individuals were greeted by a large inflatable wizard balloon near the entrance of the dealership. Young Mazda — who partnered with the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation and Children’s Treehouse Museum — also brought face painters, balloon artists, storytellers, magicians, spell book making stations, games and refreshments into their facility as well as wizard-like props to take photos with.

Attendees were not only encouraged to partake in the festivities, but to dress up, donate a non-perishable food item and submit a coloring page. Those who completed one of the aforementioned tasks were entered into a raffle for a Nintendo Switch. Davis and Ogden School District employees who made a donation were also provided with a free oil change. 

“Cast A Spell is a staple event across our foundation,” said Tami Olsen, director of Young Caring for Our Young. “It’s not only something that makes giving back easy, but fun as well. It plays a critical role in developing an army of good across our communities.”

Both organizations within the Young Automotive Group, Young Mazda and the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation have hosted Cast A Spell on Hunger annually since 2017. The effort is a part of several of their charitable endeavors, including the Ogden Teacher of the Year giveaway — where an exceptional educator is awarded with an all-expenses paid, one-year lease on a new vehicle. 

Established in 2007, Young Caring for Our Young serves as a philanthropic non-profit owned and operated by the Young Automotive Group. The foundation was founded by Young Automotive Group partner owner Spencer Young Sr. and his wife Sherry.

“The Young Automotive Group is dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience, and we know that takes more than just our work in the showroom,” said Albert. “It’s a privilege to be a part of the Ogden community, and any opportunity to give back to this area is valued.”