The Pat and Diana Priestner Family, Forbes Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac, and all CanadaOne Cares Dealerships, are dedicated to making a meaningful, lasting difference through thoughtful charitable giving. By supporting the needs of our communities we're building more than a company; we're building a legacy of care and commitment.
Waterloo Forbes GM Cares
We're Proud to Support
Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region
We believe that being community-driven means showing up where it matters most - and sometimes, that means trading our desks for tool belts. Over two meaningful build days with Habitat for Humanity, our team had the opportunity to work alongside passionate volunteers, future homeowners, and dedicated organizers who are helping make affordable housing a reality in our community.
From framing walls to hearing firsthand how safe, stable housing changes lives, we walked away with more than just sore muscles... we left inspired. These experiences remind us that when we come together with purpose, we’re helping build a stronger future for everyone.
KidsAbility Centre for Child Development
At Forbes GM Waterloo, a CanadaOne Cares Dealership — we believe in strengthening our community. That’s why we’ve chosen to support KidsAbility Waterloo Region, an organization that makes a profound difference in the lives of children and youth with physical, developmental, and communication challenges.
KidsAbility provides life-changing therapy, support, and resources to help children reach their full potential. From speech-language therapy and occupational therapy to physiotherapy and autism services, their work empowers kids and their families every single day. It’s not just about the care — it’s about creating opportunities, building confidence, and fostering independence.
We are proud to announce a $150,000 commitment over the next three years, contributing $50,000 annually to help fund these essential programs. We know that when children thrive, so does the entire community — and we’re honored to be part of that journey.
This partnership is a reflection of our core values: supporting local, giving back, and making a meaningful impact where it matters most. Together with KidsAbility, we’re helping to create a future where every child has the chance to shine.
Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region
Every step we took on November 30th was for the women who can no longer walk with us. Forbes Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac was honored to stand as a Silver Sponsor for the Voices Empower – Walk to Break the Silence, supporting the Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region. Alongside a community of compassionate individuals, we walked six kilometers to honor the memory of women whose lives are lost every six days to femicide and domestic violence in Canada.
These numbers aren’t just statistics—they represent lives, families, and futures cut short. They’re a stark reminder of the work still ahead. By walking together, we united our voices to break the silence, advocate for change, and stand in solidarity with survivors and their families.
The conversation doesn’t end here. Let’s keep moving forward—both in steps and in action—toward a world free from violence. Together, we can break the silence. Together, we can create lasting change.
A Legacy of Care and Compassion
In the demanding world of retail automotive, mental health often takes a back seat. The challenges faced by dealership teams, especially during the pandemic, highlighted the critical need for support and understanding.
Pat Priestner, our founder, recognized this need and turned his personal reflections into action. Originally written as a heartfelt memoir for his children and grandchildren, Notes for the Children shares Pat's journey of overcoming personal and professional challenges while prioritizing mental well-being. Drawing from over 50 years in the retail automotive industry, he candidly addresses his struggles, lessons learned, and the practices that helped him navigate life's ups and downs.
Today, Pat visits our dealerships to share these experiences firsthand, fostering conversations around mental health and personal growth. His book is a blend of personal stories and practical advice—a testament to the transformative power of small, meaningful changes.
All proceeds from Notes for the Children will go to charities that support well-being across Canada, helping to extend the impact of his message beyond our organization.
Contact
For more information about Forbes Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac's charitable giving initiatives and CanadaOne Cares, please contact Lauren Becker or fill out the form below.