The General Motors Foundation has once again demonstrated its commitment to fighting cancer by donating $400,000 to the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. This generous contribution is part of a long-standing relationship that has seen nearly $6 million donated over the past 15 years.
The General Motors Foundation, established in 1976, has a rich history of supporting various charitable causes. Over the years, it has funded numerous initiatives, including the "Safe Kids Buckle Up" program and the Monday Night Football Tour, which involved football stars volunteering to build playgrounds for schools nationwide. This latest donation to the Karmanos Cancer Institute is a continuation of the Foundation's commitment to health and human services.
The $400,000 donation will significantly bolster the Karmanos Cancer Institute's efforts in cancer research and patient care. According to the American Cancer Society, cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the United States, with an estimated 1.9 million new cancer cases and 608,570 cancer deaths expected in 2021 (source). The support from the GM Foundation is crucial in advancing research and developing new treatments.
Mary Barra, GM's Senior Vice President of Global Product Development, and her husband Tony Barra have been invited to chair the Institute’s 30th annual dinner on April 28th. This marks the second time GM Foundation representatives have chaired the event, following Dan Akerson, GM's Chairman and CEO, and his wife in 2011. That year, the event raised over $8,000 for cancer research.
Mary Barra, recognized by Forbes as one of the "World’s 100 Most Powerful Women," oversees the design, engineering, and quality of new vehicles globally. Her leadership and commitment to the cause are highly valued by the Karmanos Cancer Institute.
"We’re very happy to have the support of Mary and Tony Barra as chairs of this year’s dinner to support cancer research," said Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D., president and CEO of the Karmanos Cancer Institute. "We’re incredibly grateful for the unprecedented commitment from GM and the GM Foundation. Thanks to all of our supporters, we are developing the next standard of cancer care that will be used around the world."
The General Motors Foundation primarily focuses on four key areas: health and human services, education, environment, and community development. This diverse approach ensures that their contributions have a broad and meaningful impact.
"The GM Foundation’s grant will help Karmanos continue the important fight against cancer," said foundation President Vivian Pickard. "We are fortunate to have this leading organization serving our Michigan communities and we are committed to making this year’s annual dinner a success."
The annual dinner will be held at the GM Technical Center in Warren, Michigan. As the Host Sponsor, General Motors plays a pivotal role in the event. Other notable sponsors include the Compuware Corporation, Johnson Controls, and Lil and Alex Erdeljan.
Mary and Tony Barra expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to chair the event. "Tony and I are honored to be able to build upon the success of last year’s event by chairing the 2012 Annual Dinner," said Mary Barra. "The opportunity to serve an organization that is dedicated to eradicating cancer is a special privilege for us."
The General Motors Foundation's ongoing support for the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute exemplifies its dedication to making a positive impact on society. Through substantial donations and active participation in events, the Foundation continues to play a crucial role in the fight against cancer.
For more information on the impact of cancer and ongoing research efforts, visit the American Cancer Society and the Karmanos Cancer Institute.
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