Wendle Ford Celebrates Spokane Community Heroes

March 2nd, 2026 by

Celebrating community heroes at Wendle Ford. Nominations open on Facebook and Instagram for 20 local heroes to receive a free oil change in March.

 

 

Communities in the Inland Northwest have people who step up every day to make life better for others.  Here in Spokane and over to Liberty Lake, where the winters can be long and the spirit of the “Lilac City” runs deep, these individuals are the backbone that keeps our community thriving.  They are the teachers who inspire students at Lewis and Clark High School, the firefighters protecting neighborhoods from Indian Trail to South Hill, the nurses at Providence Sacred Heart, the veterans who served our country and the volunteers at the Second Harvest Food Bank.

Throughout the month of March, Wendle Ford is proud to recognize these Spokane Community Heroes as part of Ford Motor Company’s Ford Building Together initiative.

As a heritage, family-owned dealership that has called Spokane home since 1943, we know that our 80-year legacy isn’t built on bricks and storefronts—it’s built on the trust of our neighbors.

🫡Honoring Excellence: The Ford Building Together Program in Spokane

To say thank you to those who keep our region moving and thriving, Wendle Ford is giving away 20 complimentary oil changes to local Community Heroes throughout March.

The “Ford Building Together” philosophy is simple: we are stronger when we support one another.  Whether you’re commuting across the Maple Street Bridge or heading out to Mt. Spokane for a weekend, we want to ensure our local heroes have a vehicle that is as reliable as they are.  If it’s time for routine maintenance, scheduling an oil change is an easy way to help keep your vehicle as dependable as the people who serve our community every day.

How the Nomination Process Works

  • Nominations: Visit our Facebook or Instagram social media pages to submit a nomination and help us recognize the people who make Spokane stronger every day. We invite you to nominate heroes such as:
    • First Responders
    • Military and veterans
    • Healthcare workers
    • Teachers and coaches
    • Nonprofit volunteers
    • Community leaders
  • Weekly Selection: Each week in March, we will randomly select five Community Heroes from nominations received to get a complimentary oil change.
  • Recognition: Winners are featured across our social media platforms.

Visit our Facebook or Instagram page to nominate a Community Hero:

  • Comment with their name
  • Tell us their position in the community
  • Explain what makes them special

🎉Celebrating Our Community Heroes

As nominations pour in, we are grateful for each and every one.  Below are those randomly selected to receive a free oil change:

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Dylan & Mike-We’re proud to recognize Dylan and Mike of the Spokane Fire Department, who help keep our community safe through their service, courage and dedication. Dylan and Mike represent the dedication and commitment shared by the many first responders who serve Spokane every day.

Three service members in military camouflage and tactical gear standing together in a dry, open field with hills in the background.

Gage-A Spokane firefighter and Marine Corps veteran who continues to serve his community and country with dedication. City of Spokane Fire Department

A woman smiling in a pink blazer and white turtleneck, leaning against a bridge railing with a river and city in the background.

Kitara-For her leadership in addressing the addiction epidemic and creating Gabriels Challenge, turning grief into action to help others.

A smiling woman in a Spokane Police uniform standing outdoors with a blurred background of green trees.

Captain Tracie-A dedicated leader in law enforcement who serves Spokane with integrity, courage, and commitment. City of Spokane Police Department

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Chris-For the incredible work he does in our community through Generation Alive, helping inspire and empower others.

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Haley-Vice Principal of Deer Park Elementary, inspiring students and staff through her dedication, leadership and commitment to their success.

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Kiefer-Currently serving in the Marine Corps, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication while guiding and supporting his junior Marines. Part of our amazing sales team at Wendle Motors.

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Christine-Founder of SOS – Save Our Spokane, advocating for critical community issues and giving a voice to challenges that often go unheard.

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Lori-Teacher at Map Alternative School, positively impacting students, especially those with mental health challenges, through her unwavering support and encouragement.

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Nathan & Isaac-We’re starting with a nomination close to home and a very special family. Nathan, who is serving in the U.S. Navy, and Isaac, who serves in the Washington Army National Guard, are both serving our country with dedication and pride. We also want to recognize their mom, Debbie, who is part of our Wendle team. The support, strength and sacrifice of military families often go unseen, but they play such an important role behind the scenes. We are grateful for their service and the commitment this family has made to our country.

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Rick-A familiar face in the community who has worn many hats while consistently provided hope and support, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. The dedication and versatility of Rick make him a true Community Hero.

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Steve & Mike-Co-principals at Arlington Elementary School, returned from retirement to serve the school, balancing their own families while energizing students and staff. Their dedication and teamwork have made a lasting impression on everyone at the school.

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Alyssa-Co-principals at Arlington Elementary School, returned from retirement to serve the school, balancing their own families while energizing students and staff. Their dedication and teamwork have made a lasting impression on everyone at the school.

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Brian-Retired United States Air Force Colonel and CEO of Girl Scouts Eastern Washington & Northern Idaho, has expanded opportunities for girls in leadership, STEM, and outdoor programs. His continued dedication empowers the next generation and strengthens the community.

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Zalen-Four-year USMC veteran, continues to serve his community by handing out free turkeys every Thanksgiving. His commitment to both the country and his local community is truly inspiring.

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Bonnie-Second-generation owner of QUINN. Bonnie has led successful campaigns across multiple markets while staying deeply involved in the community through leadership and service. Her impact goes far beyond her work.

Not pictured:
Kristine-A wonderful kindergarten teacher at Skyline Elementary who helps shape and inspire the next generation.
Greg-Chiropractor who, with his wife, opened a clinic to provide much-needed care, offering reliable, compassionate service to his patients.

🛡The Wendle Way: A Legacy of Local Trust

Why do we focus so much on the community?  Because for four generations, the Wendle family has lived, worked and played in the same neighborhoods as you do.  Just like Ford believes, “Building Together” describes how we’ve stayed in business since 1943.

We are grateful for the individuals who serve others every day and help make Spokane a stronger, more vibrant community.  Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations and helped us celebrate Spokane’s Community Heroes.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 How do I nominate someone for the Spokane Community Heroes program?

 You can submit a nomination through our official social media pages, Facebook and Instagram.  We look for teachers, first responders, healthcare workers and any local resident who makes Spokane a better place to live.

Does Wendle Ford offer special financing for local heroes?

Yes.  Ford frequently offers appreciation programs for eligible First Responders and Military members.  Eligibility and offers can vary- our team can help confirm what’s available at the time you’re ready.

How can I schedule my oil change at Wendle Ford?

Scheduling is designed to be as convenient as possible for our busy Spokane neighbors.  You can use our online scheduler tool available 24/7 on our website, or call our service department directly at (509) 565-8931.  We also offer Ford Mobile Service where we come to you and Pickup and Delivery options within 10 miles of the dealership.

 

Posted in Spokane Community