By THEADORIS MORRIS / Staff Writer

Thorsby High School wants all members of the local community to help raise $6,000 for its athletic program simply by taking a car for a test drive.

Ford Motor Company and Baugh Ford Mercury are partnering to help raise money through its innovative test-drive event in support of Thorsby High School’s extracurricular activities.

Ford’s Drive One 4UR School program began in 2007, and more than 173,000 people have helped raise more than $3.3 million for nearly 1,000 high schools across the country.

“I hope we are able to capitalize on all the money that Ford is offering because this will help in the construction of a new athletic facility,” said Russ Bryan, Thorsby High School principal. “I appreciate Ford Motor and Baugh Ford Mercury doing this to help schools.”

For every person who test-drives a 2011 Taurus, Fusion Hybrid or Sport, Fiesta or Mustang, Baugh Ford Mercury will donate $20 to the school. In addition, anyone that test-drives a car for the high school will be entered in a drawing to win two Auburn vs. Alabama Iron Bowl Tickets.

“We’re excited to help raise money for Thorsby High School and at the same time introduce parents, teenagers and other drivers to our high quality lineup and innovative safety technologies,” said Tommie Baugh, owner of Baugh Ford Mercury. “We know it is important that students continue to have opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, and that’s why it is a privilege to help support these important programs.”

Those interested in participating are asked to visit Thorsby High School on Saturday, Oct. 16, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. but can get an early start by visiting the dealership any time this week to test-drive a vehicle for the fundraiser. Participants must be 18 or older and have a valid driver’s license.

There is a limit of one test drive per household.