An Indiana automotive group is giving Jeep-lovers the opportunity to support four local humane societies with what it calls the “Woofs and Wheels” party.
Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Columbus will hold the event at its Jeep section on Saturday, July 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees will be treated to an automotive show from nearby Jeep clubs, in addition to a performance by the band “Three Beards Strummin.” The party benefits four local organizations: the Community Animal Rescue Effort, the Batholomew County Humane Society, Columbus Animal Care and the Brown County Humane Society. The groups will showcase pets for participants to adopt at a low cost and will accept donations throughout the “Woofs and Wheels” party.
The dealership is part of the Columbus Auto Group, which also operates Chevrolet of Columbus, Ford of Columbus, Hyundai of Columbus and Nissan of Columbus. Of the dealer group’s five storefronts, Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Columbus was selected as the location for the “Woof and Wheels” party for the close association between Jeep owners and animal lovers. “Jeep people tend to be big animal lovers,” noted Kirsten VantWoud, director of the Bartholomew County Humane Society Shelter. “They usually do a lot of camping and hiking with their dogs, and I think the Columbus Auto Group picked up on that big time.”
Dealerships have tremendous power to support local charities and serve their communities and can gain both respect and brand recognition through donating or organizing. However, the positive impacts of such work extend far beyond social issues and business finances: the real benefit is that people are brought closer together by working towards a good cause. “Woof and Wheels” serves as an excellent example of the kinds of unexpected connections that can form as a result of automotive groups or dealers helping their neighborhoods. As VantWoud notes: “This is really just a good opportunity for the public to come and enjoy the work we do, as well as find out the fun that members of the Jeep clubs have.”
