Ford Motor Company recognized Team Ford as one of only six outstanding Ford and Lincoln dealers with its prestigious Salute to Dealers award, celebrating their exceptional contributions to their communities. From supporting veterans and youth programs to funding cancer research and providing job training for people with disabilities, these honorees exemplify the positive impact dealerships can have on the lives of others. 

Jared Priestner, along with Team Ford and the Go Auto Group, dedicate countless hours and resources in their efforts to support those in need. With their passionate focus on education and children’s health initiatives, they have made a tremendous impact on the many communities where they do business. One example is their Fuels the Schools program which has delivered more than 500,000 free meals to children in socially vulnerable situations throughout the Edmonton school system. Meals are created by an in-house culinary team, then packaged and delivered to schools by dealership employees. Thrive is a K-6 public charter school, started by the Priestner family, designed to support underprivileged children and families in the community. The school offers a STEM-enhanced curriculum to help children reach their full potential. Meals are provided throughout the day along with after-school care, all at no cost to families. Thrive School is the result of the Priestner family’s vision, execution and continuous funding. It would not exist without Jared’s vision and their generosity. Go Auto also sponsors Fresh Hoops, a program that renovates basketball courts across multiple communities, ensuring that students have access to updated recreational facilities. They donated an initial $500,000 and match all community donations, up to an additional $500,000. Finally, Jared also partners with the Kids with Cancer Society to support children and families dealing with the disease. Support includes a $3 million dollar funding commitment over five years. Additionally, Go Auto’s Random Acts of Kindness initiative provides funds to employees so they can lead humanitarian efforts in their respective communities. The initiative encourages team collaboration while fostering a culture of giving and compassion. Jared Priestner’s leadership and commitment to giving is contagious and far-reaching, providing indispensable help to so many who truly need it.

“For 25 years, the Salute to Dealers award has highlighted the incredible work our dealer network does to support the communities they serve,” said Henry Ford III. “This year’s honourees exemplify the spirit of giving and the positive impact we can have when we work together to build stronger, more vibrant communities. Their dedication inspires us all, and we are proud to recognize their exceptional contributions.”

The Salute to Dealers program, originally established by Edsel B. Ford, has expanded globally since 2011, recognizing 166 dealers from 20 countries over its 25-year history. This year’s recipients were selected by a panel of judges based on their individual community service activities, duration of involvement, and personal motivation. Each honoree received a custom portrait showcasing their philanthropic endeavours, which will also be displayed at Ford World Headquarters for a year.

The award ceremony, held in New Orleans on January 24th, preceded the annual National Automobile Dealers Association convention in Las Vegas. The program underscores Ford’s long-standing commitment to empowering communities globally, reflecting a shared legacy of more than 120 years of positive impact. Ford and Lincoln dealer principals are eligible for nomination by their dealership or regional representatives.

Video of the generosity of Team Ford can be found at https://fordcontentcenter.com/url/2025SalutetoDealers