Supporting the animals behind local law enforcement this holiday season, Young Hyundai delivered gifts to Weber County police dogs and officers during their Christmas K9 Appreciation event on Dec. 16.
“We’re thrilled with how the celebration turned out,” said Edith Hornsby, a customer service coordinator at Young Hyundai. “It was fantastic to have these individuals and dogs over who do so much for our communities. We’re incredibly grateful for them.”
An event that took place at the Wall Avenue dealership, refreshments were provided to both officers and dogs in attendance. Young Hyundai then honored members of the force with gift bags, which included dog toys, tennis balls, Christmas cards, frisbees and gift cards as well as blankets for the animals — which were embroidered with the text “Protect with Honor. Serve with Pride” by former canine search and rescue officer Debbie Zuurbier.
“I don’t know if I’ve ever been invited to an event like this before,” said officer Jacob Stanger, canine handler for Riverdale City. “People will randomly give us stuff, but never been invited to something like this.”
Hornsby — who piloted the initiative — originally intended for the project to be a solo effort. That said, when she informed Young Hyundai’s general manager, John Burgett, they both worked to maximize the event’s impact.
The dealership quickly partnered with other Young Automotive Group locations, including Young Ford Ogden, Young Subaru and Young Car Wash. In addition to these businesses, they also reached out to a Denny’s on Wall Avenue, a Petco, American Family Insurance’s Ashby agency, Oz Marketing and a baker on Washington Terrace.
In total, eighteen presents were created for dogs and officers stationed from Roy to Pleasant View. A majority of the items in each gift bag were donated by an individual or entity who was engaged in the endeavor. American Family Insurance’s Ashby agency not only contributed items like a thermos mug, but set up a donation program for the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation’s KIND Fund program — which provides for local children in need.
In addition to the Christmas K9 Appreciation event, Young Hyundai has been engaged in the Young Automotive Group’s celebration of 100 years in business. Founded in 1924 by Seldon “Jack” Olsen, the company has expanded from a single service shop to over 30 locations across Utah, Idaho and Montana.
“Events and initiatives like this are such a huge part of our identity,” said Cody Thygesen, service manager at Young Hyundai. “We’re always striving to be more than a business by engaging with this area as a community partner. I love that we’re able to give back to these officers and animals who make a tremendous impact.”
