On Thursday, November 7th, 4-year-old Jayden of Haverstraw, New York in Rockland County received the surprise of a lifetime – finding out that his wish to have an online shopping spree was being granted, led by Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley and Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru.
Jayden, who courageously battled a critical, life-threatening illness, was completely unaware that his wish would be revealed on Thursday afternoon. He only knew that he was serving as Wish Kid Ambassador for the Subaru Share the Love Event kick-off with longtime community and corporate partner, Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru.
Jayden was thrilled when he was surprised with the most-wanted item from his online shopping spree list – a Power Wheels electronic vehicle – presented to him by Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru employees and customers.
With collaboration from local municipal services including the Orangetown Police Department, Orangetown Highway Department, South Orangetown Ambulance Corps and the Orangeburg Fire Department, Jayden led a parade of vehicles which included local Mustang Car enthusiasts coordinated by Schultz Ford in partnership with Bill Kolb, Jr. Subaru.
To recognize the special occasion, Orangetown Town Supervisor Teresa Kenny provided Jayden with a certificate recognizing November 7th as Jayden’s Day.
Jayden led the procession down Greenbush Road, where he was cheered on by local Lowe’s employees and Stop & Shop associates. The Orangetown Police coordinated with additional Law Enforcement agencies who were ready with lights & sirens to cheer for Jayden at the turnaround as he passed by and they then joined the parade of vehicles – special thanks to the following supporters:
Clarkstown, Haverstraw, Piermont, Ramapo, New York State Police, Rockland County Sheriff’s Department, Spring Valley, Stony Point, and Suffern Police – for creating an unforgettable community moment and lasting memories for Jayden and his family.
Finally, the scene was set, Jayden was led inside to the Bill Kolb Jr. showroom where he was surprised with all the items from his online shopping spree list – including diecast cars, toys, clothing, shoes, a Nintendo Switch, and more.
The Wish Day was highlighted by supporters holding up signs made by local elementary school students that read “Your wish is granted” – members of Jayden’s family along with Make-A-Wish staff, volunteers, and Subaru employees – together, helped deliver hope and joy into Jayden’s life when he needed it most.
As part of the Subaru Share the Love Event, from Nov. 21, 2024, through Jan. 2, 2025, Subaru will donate $250* for every new Subaru vehicle purchased or leased to the customer’s choice of participating charities, including Make-A-Wish. As a proud supporter of Make-A-Wish since 2011, Subaru is honored to support this wish for such an inspirational and resilient child.
This year, multiple Make-A-Wish chapters across many Subaru retailer locations have been chosen as hometown charities, to which customers will be able to direct their support. Locally, Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru selected Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley for their hometown charity and will additionally donate $25 to the chapter for each sold or leased vehicle.
“We know how physically and emotionally difficult medical treatments can be for children and their families,” said Christopher Flood, general manager of Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru. “As a supporter of Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley, we hope to provide local children like Jayden with strength and positivity to fight against a critical illness.”
To join Subaru and others in giving renewed hope and joy this season, visit wish.org/Subaru.
*Subaru will donate $250 for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased from November 21, 2024, through January 2, 2025, to four national charities designated by the purchaser or lessee. Pre-approved Hometown Charities may be selected for donation depending on retailer participation. For every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased during the campaign period, participating retailers will donate a minimum of $50 in total to their registered Hometown Charities. Subaru will donate a total of $5 to their registered Hometown Charities for every Subaru vehicle routine service visit during the campaign period. A routine visit includes customer payment of $5 or greater, or any service that includes a genuine Subaru oil filter. Purchasers/lessees must make their charity designations by January 10, 2025. The four national charities will receive a guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000 each. See your local Subaru retailer for details or visit subaru.com/share. All donations made by Subaru of America, Inc.
