Sophie's Escape: Underriner Ford, United Way team up for epic giveaway

Dec 20

Written By Columbia Community Connection

Sophie Thurnburg opened the trunk on her gifted 2015 Ford Escape at Underriner Ford in The Dalles on Dec. 11 to find presents for her and her siblings. The well-maintained vehicle will go a long way toward her reliable transportation to access education, employment, and essential services.

United Way & Underriner Ford & Nissan of The Dalles Host 2nd Annual Car Giveaway

Story and Photos From Caroline Grew with the United Way of the Columbia Gorge:

The Dalles, Ore., Dec. 20, 2024 —United Way of the Columbia Gorge and Underriner Ford & Nissan of The Dalles came together to host their 2nd Annual Car Giveaway, providing a life-changing gift to local community member Sophie Thurnburg.

This year’s recipient was chosen after a heartfelt application from Sophie and a nomination by Andrew Jimenez, Program Director for CultureSeed, the only nonprofit in the Columbia Gorge offering free, long-term outdoor experiences and mental health services for youth.

Sophie’s application shared the daily challenges she faces, and this generous gift will give her reliable transportation to access education, employment, and essential services.

L to R: United Way of the Columbia Gorge Director Caroline Grew, car recipient Sophie Thurnburg, Cultureseed Program Director Andrew Jimenez, Blake Underriner of Underriner Ford & Nissan and United Way Board Member Gordy Sato are all smiles at the giveaway on Dec. 11th.

Blake Underriner, Managing Partner of Underriner Ford & Nissan, expressed his excitement about the event:

“Efficient, safe, and affordable transportation is vital not only for a family’s economic well-being but also for their ability to stay connected with the community,” he said. “We are thrilled to host this giveaway for the second year and are grateful for the chance to make a real difference in someone’s life during the holiday season.”

Caroline Grew, Executive Director of United Way of the Columbia Gorge, shared similar sentiments:

“This partnership with Underriner Ford and Nissan of The Dalles highlights the power of collaboration among local businesses and nonprofits. Together, we can help families access life-changing resources. We are grateful for the generosity of all those involved in making this giveaway possible.”

The selection process involved input from 30 local nonprofit partners invited by United Way to submit nominations for individuals in need of transportation. The final decision was made by a team from Underriner Ford & Nissan in The Dalles, which also volunteered time to ensure the car was in excellent, safe, and reliable condition. Going above and beyond, the Underriner team filled the trunk with holiday gifts for Sophie and her siblings, provided both summer and winter tires, and offered free maintenance and service for one year, ensuring that Sophie’s new vehicle will remain safe and dependable for years to come.