(September 15, 2021) DETROIT — General Motors has announced it will invest $50 million into Detroit-based nonprofit programs that expand access to education and employment opportunities and strengthen city neighborhoods. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the City of Detroit, is part of GM’s strategy to promote sustainable solutions through projects that help Detroiters learn, work and thrive.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra discussed the commitment during a fireside chat Tuesday at Durfee Innovation Society. They were joined by key nonprofit leaders whose organizations recently have been awarded a total of $4 million in grant funding from GM.

“As the home of our headquarters for more than a century, Detroit has always been a priority for General Motors,” said Barra. “We’re invested in supporting a strong future for this community. Our new commitment will help break down barriers and promote growth through education and economic success.”

Duggan said, "GM has been a part of this community for the last century, providing good-paying, middle-class jobs for Detroiters. Today's commitment by GM solidifies the company's investment in the people of Detroit, ensuring Detroiters have the skills they need to access these kinds of opportunities for years to come."

Of the $50 million commitment, key grants made thus far include:

    •    $1.25 million to support Human-I-T’s work connecting Detroiters to a comprehensive digital support system that includes internet connectivity, devices, tech support and digital literacy skills to create greater access to education and employment.

    •    $1 million to the Detroit at Work People Plan and Community Health Corps to support a multifaceted approach to employment, health and well-being resources coordinated across the city with key agencies

    •    $1 million to United Way’s Ride United, a mobility initiative that aims to address transportation barriers for workers through ongoing partnerships with on-demand ride services and United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s local social service agency partners.

    •    $750,000 to Beyond Basics to provide critical literacy education for students at Cody and Mumford High Schools and support adults at the Family Literacy Center at Durfee Innovation Society.

The announcement reinforces GM’s commitment to the city and builds upon decades of the automaker’s philanthropy in Detroit. In 2020 alone, GM funded 57 projects across the Motor City that were projected to impact over 250,000 individuals.

Beginning Sept. 20, more than 450 GM employees will volunteer at nonprofits across the city as part of the 10th annual GM Cares Week. During this time, 100 employees will launch beautification projects in Hamtramck near Factory ZERO.