Go Auto supports the Alzheimer Society of B.C. to raise funds and drive awareness

Why did your organization choose to support the Alzheimer Society of B.C. as a presenting sponsor?

There are two reasons. First, Alzheimer's disease is an incredibly worthwhile cause. And, secondly, we also wanted to continue with the support that Cowell Auto Group has been providing the Society over the past several years. We understand that it’s an important cause to both the Cowells and their employees and has been for years. So, we thought it was fitting that we continue with that support as a presenting sponsor.

Can you speak to how dementia affects people connected to your organization?

We have over 3,000 employees at Go Auto. Knowing that one in five Canadians has experience caring for someone living with dementia, we know that there will be many people affected by dementia in our organization, whether they are family members, friends or other community members.  

What would you say to others in the business community considering putting their support behind the Walk or any of the other Society events?

I would say contribute: get involved and contribute. It's a great opportunity to participate in both raising funds and driving awareness at a local community level. What resonates for us very much is that with the number of events the Alzheimer Society has in different communities all over the province, people can participate in locally driving grassroots awareness and fundraising. That’s what's great about the Walk – it provides local opportunities all over B.C., where many other sponsorships are one-off events. This is quite unique and it holds a significant value.

As you talk about your relationship with the Alzheimer Society of B.C. and this sponsorship, do you expect to hear from Go Auto staff about their own connection to dementia?

I would think so, because it raises awareness. Our employees will realize our company supports people affected by dementia and this will provide a safe space for them to talk about the impact the disease has had on their lives. Also, through our relationship with the Alzheimer Society of B.C., we will be able to help our employees find resources, learn about the disease and gain a deeper understanding of what support is available to them.

Do you have personal experience with dementia?

I do. Both of my parents lived with dementia in the latter parts of their lives. My dad had it first and then he passed away. After that, my mother developed dementia. However, the conditions and symptoms were quite different for each of them. I navigated each situation as best I could, trying to be mindful of the disease and making the most of my time with them. It was challenging, certainly for them but also for our family. If we had had more awareness and understanding of where to find information and what support was available to help manage it better, I think we would have been way better off.