Press ReleaseMEDIA CONTACTS:
United Way for Southeastern Michigan
Cara I. Belton, 313-226-9484 or 313 520-8454
Laura L. Rodwan, 313-226-9484 or 313-477-2750
General Motors
Geri Lama, 313-665-9973 or cell: 313-580-8469DETROIT – General Motors Foundation has donated three Sit-N-Lift equipped Chevrolet Uplander vans to United Way for Southeastern Michigan. GM’s exclusive Sit-N-Lift feature provides a fully motorized lift-and-lower passenger seat to help people with limited mobility get in and out of the vehicle with greater ease. This is the fourth year the GM Foundation has donated vehicles to the United Way.
Erin Kreis, Assistant Secretary, GM Foundation, gave the keys to Michael J. Brennan, president and CEO, United Way for Southeastern Michigan at a ceremony held today at Merollis Chevrolet in Eastpointe, MI. The vans were presented by Brennan to three nonprofit agencies serving individuals in metro Detroit: Brightmoor Community Center, Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit, and LA SED Inc., (Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development).
“The ongoing commitment of General Motors and the GM Foundation to helping individuals in southeast Michigan is evident by their generosity in donating these vehicles,” said Brennan. “With the Sit-N-Lift feature, GM provides a greater sense of independence and is making a difference in people’s lives every day.”
The vans will be used by agencies to transport senior citizens and others to doctor’s appointments, recreational activities, childcare, and other necessary daily activities.
“We are just thrilled to receive the new GM Sit and Lift van,” said Mark Lit, Executive Director of Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit. “Like many service agencies, transportation is a major problem, so this donation couldn’t have come at a better time. The Jewish population is aging rapidly -- it is very important that we are able to provide transportation for seniors to and from medical and critical care appointments, as well as events and gathering for socialization purposes,” he added.
GM is the only automotive manufacturer in the United States to offer a fully motorized, rotating lift-and-lower passenger seat to help people stay on the move. Sit-N-Lift provides convenient access to the right-hand second row seating area. Operated by a handheld remote control, the power bucket seat rotates, then extends out of the vehicle and lowers for easy entry and exit.
“These donations further strengthen General Motors’ longstanding partnership with the United Way. GM is committed to improving mobility in the communities we touch,” said Erin Kreis. “This is a great match-up of the United Way’s needs with the capability of GM vehicles.”
The donated vans will also come with three years of complimentary OnStar coverage. Because GM recognizes the special safety concerns of people with limited mobility, the company extends the OnStar safety and security package for every sport van customer who purchases Sit-N-Lift or has a van fitted with eligible aftermarket mobility equipment.
About GMGeneral Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.
About The GM FoundationThe GM Foundation was established in 1976 to support the philanthropic interests and business priorities of General Motors Corporation. In 2004, worldwide contributions by GM and the GM Foundation totaled $68 million.
About United Way for Southeastern MichiganUnited Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Campaign, and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.uwsem.org.
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Labels: donating, Press_Releases
