Ford Motor Company isn't just associated with iconic cars like the Ford Mustang or modern-day innovations like the Ford Lightning. The brand also has a strong record of philanthropy that dates back to Ford's very beginnings. As a company that revolutionized the manufacturing of automobiles, Ford transformed the automobile into something more than just a rare luxury item and made Ford vehicles a must-own for people across the nation. Since then, Ford's presence in the community has meant more than just factories and workers. It means that communities build Ford, and Ford builds communities.
Celebrating 75 Years of Philanthropy
The sentiment behind Ford's philanthropy resonates with Americans today. When a company takes a lot from society, it should also give a lot back. Henry Ford II created the Ford Motor Company Fund in 1949 to accomplish Ford's dream of giving back to the Americans who built their empire.
Ford's philanthropic branch is now called Ford Philanthropy. Its 75th birthday is a time to reflect on all that Ford has given back to society. Early on in the mission, Ford contributed to society by funding new hospitals, local communities, and even the Downtown Detroit Civic Center. Even the University of Michigan-Dearborn owes some of its storied history to the Ford Motor Company Fund.
Ford's Philanthropy continues in the modern era in the form of community cleanups and so much more. Ford's charitable donations to society amount to an impressive $2.3 billion. While that's only a fraction of what Ford makes from Americans, it's an impressive feat by any standard. The company that made the automobile a nationwide sensation has never forgotten the communities that built Ford and gave the brand its long history of success.
The current President of Ford Philanthropy is Mary Culler, and she's happy to celebrate this 75-year milestone. "As we celebrate 75 years of impact, we remain deeply committed to leveraging Ford's unique capabilities and expertise." She focuses on helping communities "where Ford has roots" and expects nothing but good things for Ford and for those communities. As she phrases it, "giving back" was a goal of Ford from the very beginning of its storied history.
Learn More About Ford Philanthropy
Ford is proud of its 75 years of philanthropy, but leadership knows that the next 75 years mean the most. If you'd like to know about Ford's ongoing philanthropic projects, please contact our dealership or register to become a volunteer!