Ridgehill Ford’s philanthropic relationship with CMHF was kicked into high gear eight years ago when Kevin Zimic purchased the prominent dealership on Hespeler Road. As a previous member of the St. Catharines General Hospital Foundation Board Executive, Kevin understood the colossal task of raising funds to build and equip a new hospital. His engagement with CMHF started light, as he was still getting settled into the Cambridge business landscape and looking for a home for his family.
Ridgehill first supported the Foundation with a test drive event in 2012 and followed it up by sponsoring a corporate banner for Trees of Caring. In the years since Trees of Caring has become an ongoing commitment; the dealership has become a significant sponsor of our Golf Classic, and participated in Best Bites and community dinners.
Once Kevin re-located his family to Cambridge, he felt he could finally direct more of his passion and energy to the hospital. He is now “all in” and serving as both the CMH Foundation Board Vice-Chair and the WeCareCMH Co-Chair. He strongly believes it is Cambridge’s time for a right-sized, state-of-the-art hospital. That’s what he wants available for his family, his employees, and every one of his clients.
It was important to Kevin that he gives a financial donation in addition to volunteering his time and talent. He knew that successful campaign leaders give first, before they approach others. He chose to become a Caring Business donor, giving a $50,000 pledge spread over 3–5 years.
Ridgehill Ford is not the only auto dealer to contribute to the campaign, as the Bennett family has also made a significant commitment as a Caring Family, and Cambridge Toyota continues their loyalty to our Trees of Caring Campaign. Each of these gifts impacts the care we are able to provide for our patients when they need us most.