“Small things can add up to making a big impact:” Go Auto on supporting communities affected by dementia

We are thrilled to welcome Go Auto back as presenting sponsor for the 2026 Walk, their fifth year with the event. Being a presenting sponsor is about working together to reach an aspirational fundraising goal and reflects a profound connection to the cause and the many people it affects. Today, there are more than 85,000 people in BC and the Yukon who are living with dementia. Michael Hladun, Senior Vice President of Go Auto shared some insights into why his organization has committed to supporting people affected by dementia.

Why did you initially get involved?

“When Go Auto expanded into Richmond in 2021, it was important for us to maintain the deep community involvement the Cowell family and employees had with the Alzheimer Society of BC and Yukon for more than a decade. In addition to the Alzheimer Society of BC and Yukon being an incredibly important cause, we believe that having a regional, or market-specific cause, to get behind, as part of supporting the community you have the privilege to do business in, is critical to corporate responsibility.”

Why does dementia matter to your staff, dealerships and clients?

“Go Auto has a rich history in philanthropy and employee engagement in the causes we support is the fabric of our culture. It would be hard to find any employee, or person for that matter, who hasn't felt the impact of dementia on their friends, families or loved ones. It’s a cause that resonates deeply with many of our employees, and one that inspires a strong sense of responsibility to support people affected by the disease, while helping advance awareness, prevention, treatment and research.”

What kinds of personal connections to the cause have you learned about across Go Auto since the outset of your sponsorship?

“We definitely have employees who are very passionate about the cause. From entering teams in the Walk, to leaders sharing stories close to their heart about the impact the disease has had on loved ones. Personally, both my parents lived with dementia in the final years of their lives and I can say it was a difficult time for them and the rest of my family. We definitely appreciated all the supports provided to make things as comfortable as possible during that time.”

How would you like to see communities come out and support the Walk?

“Engage in any way possible. Walk, donate, talk openly to others about it, and generally be supportive of anything in front of you that's making efforts to help advance the cause.”

What would you like to say to other business leaders considering supporting this event?

“There are so many health-related causes to support; I know it's difficult to choose when financial and time limitations are high these days. I'd only say, think about anything at all you can do, regardless of how small it may seem. It's surprising how many small things can add up to making a big impact. Alzheimer's disease and other dementias affect so many in our community and the importance of support can't be underestimated. Joining the Walk is an easy and fun way to get involved.”