Investing in Communities

Ford has a long history of investing in the communities in which we operate by making charitable contributions to nonprofit organizations. Ford's commitment to supporting local communities remains unchanged, despite our business conditions. Indeed, even in difficult times, we believe it is important to continue these programs.

Ford delivers on this commitment through the Company's community relations arm, formally known as Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. This organization is responsible for the Company's philanthropy, community relations committees and volunteerism efforts.

Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services is a not-for-profit corporation established in 1949. Made possible by Ford Motor Company profits, the organization makes contributions to qualified U.S. not-for-profit organizations that enhance and improve opportunities for those who live in the communities in which Ford operates. It supports organizations in three strategic areas: education, auto-related safety, and American heritage and legacy.

Outside of the Fund, Ford also makes direct corporate contributions to a variety of charitable organizations and causes.

In 2008, Ford contributed a total of $49 million. Of that amount, $33 million was in the form of grants awarded by Ford Motor Company Fund; the remainder was direct corporate giving. The total amount is less than in previous years, reflecting the challenging business conditions that affected the Company's core automotive business in 2008.

Increasingly, Ford is expanding abroad with its community relations. In 2008, Ford continued its partnership with the GlobalGiving Foundation, an organization that has worked with Ford Motor Company Fund to expand our giving to international communities affected by major disasters.

Ford provided immediate assistance to communities in need of clean water after Cyclone Nargis struck Myanmar, and provided assistance to children recovering emotionally from the effects of flooding in Tabasco, Mexico. Through the Ford GlobalGiving Web site, Ford employees were able to give and have their donations matched to help those affected by the earthquake in China's Sichuan Province. Ford's Asia Pacific Africa personnel, in cooperation with GlobalGiving and the Asia Injury Prevention Foundation, expanded Ford's Driving Skills for Life Program in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines. Also through the GlobalGiving Foundation, Ford Export Operations and Global Growth Initiatives supported the Ford Volunteer Corps Global Week of Caring through work with its international dealers.