Ford test drives net $1,480 for Lakes Region United Way

LACONIA — The Lakes Region United Way's annual fund drive received a $1,480 boost from Ford Motor Company on Wednesday, thanks to a "Drive 4 UR Community" event hosted by Irwin Automotive Group.

The fund raising event invites members of the public to visit the dealership to test drive a new Ford. For each drive, Ford donates $20 to the organization of the dealership's choosing. Up to $6,000 could be raised at each event.

Betty Ballantyne, used car sales manager, said the dealership chose the United Way because, "we felt that touched on many community organizations — we wanted to make the biggest impact."

This was the third such event hosted by the local dealership. The first two benefited the Laconia High School Band and Drama Club.

By the end of the day, 74 people participated in the event. Organizers reported that most-requested vehicles to test were Focus, Edge, F-150, and the new C-Max Hybrid, which the dealership first received only 10 days prior.

Dave Burnham, from Alton Bay, asked to take an Explorer for a spin. He said he came to the event because of the way Irwin does business. "They do a lot for their community, they do a lot for their customers. If I'm around, I'll try to stop in."

CAPTION for DRIVE FOR YOUR COMMUNITY in AA:

Dave Burnham, of Alton Bay, was one of the 74 people who visited Irwin Automotive Group on Wednesday to participate in "Drive 4 UR Community," an event which raised $1,480 for the Lakes Region United Way. (Laconia Daily Sun photo/Adam Drapcho)