Dealers increase charitable giving, Ally survey reports

DETROIT, Sept. 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Automobile dealers serve as pillars of strength in their communities across the United States, particularly when it comes to charitable giving, according to a recent survey by Ally Financial. Survey data shows that nearly two-thirds of U.S. dealers increased their charitable contributions in 2012 compared to 2011. In addition, more than half of those who responded said they plan to increase their charitable contributions in 2013. 

Specifically, the Ally survey found:

• 65 percent of dealers surveyed said their charitable contributions increased in 2012 versus last year, and 54 percent plan to increase their contributions in 2013.
• 98 percent of dealers surveyed contribute to local organizations, with 25 percent of dealers and their staffs volunteering more than 100 hours in their community annually.
• Approximately 45 percent of dealers contribute more than $20,000 per year in their respective communities.
• When asked about factors motivating dealers to contribute, 68 percent said it was to make a positive impact in the community, while 21 percent said it was due to a personal cause.

"Automobile dealers do a tremendous job supporting their local communities," said Tim Russi, executive vice president, North American Auto Operations for Ally Financial. "Ally will sponsor the TIME Dealer of the Year program again this year to recognize dealers from every state who donate their time and money to important causes."

The TIME Dealer of the Year award recipients are among the nation's most successful auto dealers who also demonstrate a long-standing commitment to community service. Heading into its 44^th year, the program is produced in cooperation with the National Automobile Dealers Association and is renowned as one of the automobile industry's most prestigious awards for new car dealers.

Nominees for the 2013 TIME Dealer of the Year Award will be announced in October, with the winner being named at the NADA Convention and Expo in Orlando, Fla. on February 9.

To acknowledge dealer contributions throughout the year, Ally has also launched AllyDealerHeroes.com, a new website highlighting the philanthropic efforts of dealers across the country.

"AllyDealerHeroes.com features inspiring stories about how dealers are making a difference in the communities where they live and work," said Ally's auto marketing executive, Andrea Riley. "The site is a perfect complement to the TIME Dealer of the Year program and will serve as an online community for dealers, local leaders and even consumers to share stories and collaborate on how to get involved and make a difference. It is truly inspiring to read these stories and see the tangible impact dealers are making in their communities every day."  

For more information on the TIME Dealer of the Year program, visit www.timedealeroftheyear.com.

*Ally Financial conducted a random sample survey in August 2012 and received more than 300 responses from U.S. dealers. Survey questions focused on dealer levels of involvement in charitable giving and volunteerism in communities. 

About Ally Financial
Ally Financial Inc. is a leading automotive financial services company powered by a top direct banking franchise. Ally's automotive services business offers a full suite of financing products and services, including new and used vehicle inventory and consumer financing, leasing, inventory insurance, commercial loans and vehicle remarketing services.  Ally Bank, the company's direct banking subsidiary, offers an array of deposit products, including certificates of deposit, savings accounts, money market accounts, IRA deposit products and online checking.  Ally's Commercial Finance unit provides financing to middle-market companies across a broad range of industries.

With approximately $179 billion in assets as of June 30, 2012, Ally operates as a bank holding company.  For more information, visit the Ally media site at http://media.ally.com or follow Ally on Twitter: @ally.

Contact:

Steve Kinkade
313-656-3672
[email protected]

SOURCE Ally Financial Inc.