Ford Ireland has launched a nationwide scheme called 'Drive 4 Ur Community' that will see €30 donated to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind for each and every test drive a customer takes in a new Ford vehicle across the country.
Oh, that sounds good - is it running indefinitely?
No, there's a specific time limit on the deal, with five weekends across autumn involved. There are six venues where the Drive 4 Ur Community programme is taking place, which are: Cork City Ford, Marina Market, Cork, on September 6; Sheils Motor Group, Sheils Motorpark, Galway, September 13; Bright Ford, Blanchardstown Centre, Dublin, September 19; Spirit Ford, Templeogue United F.C., Dublin, September 20; Finlay Motors, Whitewater Shopping Centre, Kildare, September 27; and Lyons of Limerick Ford, Ballysimon Road, Limerick, October 4.
So if I test drive a Ford at one of those venues on those dates, the charity gets €30?
Precisely. And who could argue with an organisation like Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind receiving help in such a manner?
Speaking of which, the charity's chief executive, Tim O'Mahony, said: “We're delighted to partner with Ford on this initiative, which directly supports our mission to help people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism.
“Community support is what makes our work possible, and this campaign will help us continue providing life-changing services free of charge. Thanks to Ford, even more people will experience the independence, safety, and companionship our dogs bring every day.”
What does Ford Ireland say about this decision?
John Manning, the market lead for Ford Ireland, added: “Ford is proud to stand alongside Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind with our 'Drive 4 Ur Community' events. Every test drive taken means vital funds raised, so our customers can play an active part in supporting this incredible charity.
“It's also a chance to discover our full range of vehicles, including the new Puma Gen-E, all-electric Explorer and new Capri, while making a real difference in communities across Ireland.”
Can I see Rozanna Purcell in these images?
You can (and good celebrity knowledge, by the way), because the Irish radio presenter, charity worker and model is a brand ambassador for Ford. She said: “I've always admired the incredible work Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind does to help people gain more independence and confidence in their daily lives. As an animal lover, it's amazing to help shine a light on these incredible dogs and the committed volunteers who make such a difference to people all around the country.
“I'm really proud to get behind this initiative and highlight the impact Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind has had in communities across Ireland for decades.”
Anything else to add?
Just two points. The first is that Ford Ireland is encouraging customers to book their test drives at the five-weekend event early, by visiting the Ford Ireland website.
And the second is that you can alternatively donate direct to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind if you think you can't make any of the Drive 4 Ur Community dealer venues on the dates outlined, by heading on over to the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind webiste.