Jim Ellis Ford of Sandy Springs has donated over $1,500 and two learning vehicles to Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA). The funds will be used to support the high school’s automotive careers program, and the vehicles will serve as training vehicles for students to learn new skills.
CITA is a career, technology, and agricultural education magnet high school located in Marietta. It offers tuition-free education to students within the Cobb County School District. Jim Ellis Ford has been supporting CITA since the school first opened its doors in 2020. Over the years, the dealership has provided prizes for competitions, learning support, and assistance in placing students in careers after graduation. Currently, Jim Ellis Ford employs two CITA graduates as technicians and plans to employ more in the future.
This generous donation was made possible through Ford’s Drive 4 Ur School program, which donates $20 per test drive during designated Drive 4 Ur School events. In November 2023, Jim Ellis Ford held a Drive 4 Ur School event, with 76 people test-driving new Ford vehicles to support the cause. During the event, CITA’s automotive career students had the chance to tour Jim Ellis Ford and meet with technicians.
“Supporting Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy in our local community fosters a profound sense of fulfillment for Jim Ellis Ford,” said Jim Ellis Automotive Vice President of Domestic Brands Ralph Sorrentino. “Partnerships such as this one create a tangible connection with the community while contributing to the education and growth of future generations.”
“In the time I’ve been the instructor here at Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy, Jim Ellis Ford has been our biggest supporter and partner,” said CITA Automotive Instructor Mike Hagan. “This donation will help with student success and placement of these professionals both immediately and for the future as I see this partnership growing and flourishing in the coming years.”
