2010 North American International Auto Show Charity Preview Raises More Than $2 Million for Children's Charities

DETROIT, Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2010 North American International Auto Show Charity Preview black tie gala, one of the top single-night fundraising events in the nation, opened its doors to nearly 8,500 guests, raising more then $2 million for 12 local children's charities.  This year, ticket sales represent a more than 25 percent increase over tickets sold in 2009.

(Logo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090903/DE70318LOGO )

"In the past year the Motor City has overcome many challenges and as we embark on 2010, we need to build on the new directions, new beginnings and feelings that allow us to prevail," said 2010 NAIAS Chairman Doug Fox. "Tonight's event isn't just about the glitz and glamour of the attendees or the cars; it's about the thousands of children that need our help.  And the generosity of all Charity Preview attendees is helping create unlimited potential for these kids, who are in fact our future."

Charity Preview attendees enjoyed the many exceptional concept and production vehicles on display on the show floor, as well as the music of masters of infectious upbeat, three-chord rock, the Romantics, hailing from Detroit.

"We had a great band performing in the Romantics, but we had an equally great group of sponsors coming together to make music to the ears of thousands of local kids," Fox noted.

Sponsors for the 2010 Charity Preview included:

*   RBS/Charter One – marking their third year in the role of lead sponsor

*   Delta Air Lines

*   MGM Grand Detroit and,

*   Art Van Furniture

Since its inception in 1976, Charity Preview has raised more than $81 million for children's charities in metro Detroit, over $37 million of which was raised in the last seven years alone.  Medical treatment, clothing and support services for local kids in need all are made possible through the purchase of Charity Preview tickets.

Beneficiaries of the Charity Preview include: Barat Child and Family Services; Boys & Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan; Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit; The Children's Center; Judson Center; Children's Services of Northeastern Guidance Center Assistance League; The Detroit Institute for Children; ThinkDetroit PAL; Easter Seals – Michigan; March of Dimes; Children's Hospital of Michigan; and the DADA Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.

About the North American International Auto Show

Entering its 22nd year as an international event, the NAIAS is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, providing unparalleled access to the automotive products, people and ideas that matter most – up close and in one place.  One of the largest media events in North America, the NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris-based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world.  The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at www.naias.com.

Public Show dates from the 2010 NAIAS are Saturday-Sunday, January 16-24, 2010.

SOURCE North American International Auto Show