The City of Spruce Grove is pleased to announce Zender Ford as the recipient of the 2023 Community Spirit Award. Since opening their doors in 1984, the Zender family has supported many local community groups and causes for nearly four decades.

“We are honoured to present Zender Ford with this year’s Community Spirit Award,” said Mayor Jeff Acker. “Owners Chad, Shayne, and Codie are very involved in the community and their various contributions, sponsorships and other forms of support to local groups and organizations has made a tremendous difference to many in Spruce Grove.”

On behalf of Zender Ford, members of the Zender family were presented with the award at the Greater Parkland Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Awards of Distinction on October 19, 2023.  The City initiated the Community Spirit Award in 2009 as a way to recognize local businesses that demonstrate outstanding community support and make significant contributions to our municipality.

“We are fortunate to have been operating a successful business in our community for almost 40 years,” said Zender Ford owner and CFO Codie Richard. “We strongly feel it is our obligation and responsibility to give back and support those same people and organizations that have supported us.  As a business owner, community involvement is part of our core values and something we never want to lose sight of.”

Just some of the community contributions of Zender Ford include:

• A $50,000 financial contribution to the Parkland Food Bank each year for the last three years, including the donation of a fully equipped van to make pickups and deliveries of donations much easier, and all vehicle maintenance and repair costs.
• Approximately $25,000 every year to sponsor community groups such as the Spruce Grove Saints Alberta Junior Hockey League, the Spruce Grove and Stony Plain Minor Hockey Associations, Spruce Grove Ringette Club, Maple Leaf Junior Golf Tour, and more.
• An annual financial contributor to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, Spruce Grove Firefighters (Muscular Dystrophy Campaign), Alzheimer’s Society of Alberta, the Terry Fox Foundation, STARS Air Ambulance and many other community groups, events, and causes that make a positive difference.

Not wanting to say no to anyone who asks for support, Zender’s philosophy is to give a little to everyone whether it is cash, volunteer support, or items for silent auctions.  In addition to financial support, Zender is also willing to donate their 9,000 square foot showroom to not-for-profit organizations and other community groups needing a space to host charitable or fundraising events.

As part of this award, Zender Ford has also been gifted a framed original painting titled Maskwa and the Mallard by talented local artist Dianne Meili. Congratulations on winning the 2023 Community Spirit Award, Zender Ford!