Ford Country has long been one of our most dedicated community champions. This award-winning, family-owned dealership in Henderson traces its roots back to 1922 when George Gaudin, grandfather of current owner Gary Ackerman, began selling Fords in California.

That legacy lives on in Ford Country’s commitment to serving our customers and our community. We believe in giving back by supporting impactful organizations like Serving Our Kids that provide critical help to those who need it most.

Ford Country’s passion for Serving Our Kids is part of a larger culture of compassion that starts at the top. Owner Gary Ackerman has a long history of championing causes that benefit vulnerable members of our community.

“Gary is the father of a son on the autism spectrum,” shares Julie Cane, Chief Engagement Officer of Gaudin Motor Company, parent company of Ford Country. “After years of navigating challenges to find proper care, he helped launch the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation Ackerman Center in partnership with the UNLV School of Medicine. He’s also a proud supporter of Shine A Light, which helps individuals living in the underground flood channels of Las Vegas.”

Gary’s personal motto, “Do your best and do the right thing,” is one of the core values that continues to shape Ford Country’s company culture. And the belief passed down from George Gaudin, “Serving our clients and our community is more than what we do – it’s who we are,” still rings true throughout the dealership today.

“Our team absolutely loves Serving Our Kids,” Julie says. “After Laurie Tanakaya visited and spoke with us, so many team members signed up to volunteer right then and there. It really inspired a movement across the company.”

Ford Country hosts an annual donation drive for Serving Our Kids, participates in quarterly meal bagging events, and actively supports SOK fundraisers. Team members even bring their children along, fostering a new generation of community-minded volunteers. And yes, even Gary shows up to help.

For many at Ford Country, SOK’s mission is deeply personal.

“A number of our team members experienced food insecurity as children,” Julie explains. “But even if you haven’t lived it, you can imagine the heartbreak of a child going hungry. That’s why we’re all in on Serving Our Kids. Every child deserves to feel full, safe, and supported.”