Sheehy Auto Stores is getting even more involved in its community, as it announced a 50-day charity initiative to benefit the American Heart Association as well as a new partnership with WLZL-FM (107.9) El Zol — CBS Radio-owned Latin Urban and Pop music station reaching the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. area.

Sheehy Auto Stores is gearing up for its 17th annual "Sheehy 5000" fundraising campaign, which takes the form of a 50-day community-wide effort to raise awareness and funds to benefit the American Heart Association. 

"The issue of heart disease is important to us because it affects so many of our employees, customers and their families," said Vince Sheehy, president and chief executive officer of Sheehy Auto Stores.  "In addition to our dealership-wide goal of selling 5,000 cars in 50 days with a portion of proceeds to benefit the American Heart Association, we are planning regional community outreach and events in each area to help educate our communities about how they can prevent and minimize their risks of heart disease."

The event has historically raised more than $100,000 each year for a designated charity, the dealer group shared.

Each of the 18 Sheehy dealerships throughout Washington, D.C.; Richmond, Va.; and Baltimore will lead various initiatives in support of the Sheehy 5000.

These include "Love Your Heart" stations that will feature information about heart disease and stroke, in addition to giveaways (mints, heart-shaped stress balls, pedometers, coloring books and crayons); and events such as car shows, car safety and buying tip seminars, blood pressure screenings and CPR training.

"We appreciate the Sheehy Auto Group leadership, employees, partners and customers for their support of the American Heart Association's mission," said Michelle Nostheide, vice president of marketing at the American Heart Association. "The awareness and the funds raised will make a direct impact on the heart health of the people in our communities and will save lives."

In other news from the company announced this week, the dealer group shared more about its partnership with WLZL-FM (107.9) El Zol. 

"We look forward to a long-term partnership with El Zol that will include advertising buys, radio remotes, social media and other promotions," said Allison Centore, director of marketing, Sheehy Auto Stores.  "This is part of our 'bigger picture' initiative to target a very important sector of our community."

El Zol will also be helping to promote Sheehy Auto Stores' upcoming Sheehy 5000.