A wizardry-themed charity event hosted by Young Mazda in Ogden, Utah, has brought together families and community members in a creative effort to support children experiencing food insecurity. The ninth annual “Cast-A-Spell on Hunger” event, held on 25 January, featured magical activities while raising donations for local charities.
Taking place at the dealership from 11 am to 2 pm, the event welcomed attendees to donate non-perishable food items or monetary contributions. Donations will benefit the Ogden School Foundation, the Davis Education Foundation, and Catholic Community Services.
“This is one of our dealership’s favourite traditions,” said Ryan Albert, General Manager at Young Mazda. “We always look forward to gathering this incredible community together for family fun while providing for individuals facing hunger.”
Participants were encouraged to dress in wizard-themed costumes, submit a colouring page, and contribute donations. Each completed activity entered participants into a prize draw to win a Nintendo Switch.
The event, organised in partnership with the Children’s Treehouse Museum and the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation, featured a variety of family-friendly attractions. Visitors enjoyed face painting, balloon art, magic shows, storytelling, spell book-making stations, games, and refreshments. Props inspired by wizardry themes provided a playful backdrop for photos.
In appreciation of local educators, school district employees from Davis and Ogden who attended were offered a free oil change.
“This event is regularly our first of the year, and it acts as a catalyst for our other endeavours,” said Tami Olsen, Director of the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation. “Our goal as a foundation is to create an army of good, and we know that starts by making giving back accessible. Young Mazda has been a fantastic partner, helping make Cast-A-Spell on Hunger enjoyable for parents and children alike.”
The Young Caring for Our Young Foundation, established in 2007 by Young Automotive Group’s co-owner Spencer Young Sr. and his wife Sherry, works to support local communities through philanthropic efforts. In addition to “Cast-A-Spell on Hunger,” Young Mazda participates in initiatives such as the Ogden Teacher of the Year giveaway, where an outstanding educator receives a year-long lease on a new vehicle.
“Part of what makes working at the Young Automotive Group fulfilling is these opportunities to make an impact,” said Albert. “We’re a company that understands our success wouldn’t be possible without the contributions of our incredible communities. Ogden has been a fantastic home for our business, and we strive to be a beacon for those in need across the area.”
The event’s combination of magical entertainment and meaningful fundraising underscores the dealership’s commitment to giving back. By supporting families and children, Young Mazda continues to demonstrate the positive role businesses can play in fostering community spirit and combating social challenges.