At Ford, we believe that we are only as strong as the communities we serve. This philosophy is the heartbeat of Ford Building Together, our initiative that leverages the full power of Ford — our people, our dealer network, and our partners — to help build stronger, more resilient communities.
Our dealers are taking that commitment to heart, stepping up to recognize and support the Community Heroes who are the backbone of their local neighborhoods and communities. This global effort is a collective sign of thanks and shows appreciation for local unsung heroes, including first responders, healthcare workers, military service members and veterans, and teachers
Here are a few examples of how our dealers are honoring their community heroes around the globe.
A Century of Service: Fox Ford Celebrates Waynesburg’s Bravest
In Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, the bond between Fox Ford and the Waynesburg Volunteer Fire Department isn’t just professional; it’s personal. For the Fox family, service is a multi-generational legacy. Mark Fox, the dealer principal, is a volunteer firefighter, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and great-uncle, who founded the dealership in 1912.
On March 7, the community gathered to celebrate the fire department’s 100th anniversary. The event, chaired by Fox, brought together firefighters and their families to share stories of historic calls and decades of service. The room was a tapestry of "family trees," filled with veterans looking to inspire the next generation of recruits.
"The legacy of the department ties back to the families and leaders of the community," said Fire Chief Jeff Marshall. "Our biggest assets are people. We can have all the fire trucks and gadgets, but the people are what matter most."
“With over 300 years of collective family service to the department, this isn’t just a commitment; it’s who we are and how we show up for our community.”Mark Fox, Fox Ford dealer principal and volunteer firefighter
These heroes are entirely voluntary, balancing full-time jobs with the selfless duty of protecting their neighbors.
"Service is in our DNA, Fox shared. “With over 300 years of collective family service to the department, this isn’t just a commitment, it’s who we are and how we show up for our community."
Caring for the Caregivers: Woody Anderson Ford Brings Mobile Service to Madison Hospital
While some heroes fight fires, others spend 12-hour shifts saving lives in hospitals. Healthcare workers are known for their tireless dedication, often leaving little time for their own needs, like vehicle maintenance. To celebrate the 14th anniversary of Madison Hospital in Huntsville, Alabama, Woody Anderson Ford decided to bring the service center to them.
Deploying five mobile service* vans and five expert technicians, the dealership set up shop at the hospital from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Throughout the day, the team serviced 30 vehicles, performing "The Works®" package (which includes oil changes, tire rotations, and multi-point inspections) at a discounted rate for all healthcare workers.
"What an incredible service for the wonderful employees at Madison Hospital," said Mary Lynne Wright, president of Madison Hospital. "Having this service made available to them while they are at work frees them up on their days off to take care of other things."
Explorers for Good: 10 German Dealers Empower Local Leaders
The spirit of Community Heroes is truly global. Across Germany, 10 Ford Dealers each nominated a hero or nonprofit to receive an all-electric Ford Explorer® SUV to use for the remainder of 2026, providing them with reliable transportation to further their community impact.
Among the recipients is Nancy Petsch, a dedicated community leader in Brandenburg an der Havel. In 2017, she founded "Team Kleiderursel," a private initiative that collects and distributes clothing to families in need and serves as a resource for individuals facing socioeconomic difficulties.
Whether she is working in a soup kitchen or helping a family rebuild after a house fire, Nancy’s work is about being there in urgent moments.
“This vehicle will help me reach the people who depend on me every day.”Nancy Petsch, founder of Team Kleiderursel
"This is both exciting and deeply meaningful," Petsch said. "And this vehicle will help me reach the people who depend on me every day."
Mareen Schumitz, dealer principal at Mothor Brandenburg, added, "Nancy represents the face of civic engagement in Brandenburg. We are proud to provide a vehicle that will make her important work easier."
While Nancy is a standout, she is joined by nine other nonprofits across Germany, ranging from emergency services to welfare initiatives, all now powered by Ford.
Building a Better World, Together
From the United States to Germany and all around the world, Ford Dealers are proving they are more than just businesses — they are neighbors.
Learn more about Ford Building Together.
Caroline Pernot is the director of Global Dealer Community Engagement at Ford.
*Ford Mobile Service is offered by participating dealers and may be limited based on availability, distance, or other dealer-specified criteria. Does not include parts or repair charges.
