GM Foundation Donates $400,000 to Karmanos Cancer Institute

DETROIT, Feb. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The General Motors Foundation is donating $400,000 to support cancer research conducted by the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. The grant celebrates Karmanos' 32^nd Annual Dinner and brings to nearly $7.3 million the combined contributions from the GM Foundation and GM over the last 17 years.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140203/DE57300 )

"Our donation to Karmanos Cancer Institute is part of the GM Foundation's larger commitment to support the research and prevention of the major illnesses of heart disease, cancer and diabetes," said GM Foundation President Vivian Pickard. "Due to the tireless efforts of the Karmanos team and their excellent reputation, we are again extending our support to continue the fight against cancer."

GM President Dan Ammann and his wife, Pernilla, chief operating officer of Mother New York, will serve as chairs for the Annual Dinner on Saturday, April 26, at the Fox Theatre. This is the fourth consecutive year that a member of GM senior leadership has chaired the event. 

"Pernilla and I are humbled by the opportunity to continue GM's commitment to Karmanos, and act as champions for such an important cause," Ammann said.

Cadillac is the Host Sponsor of this year's Annual Dinner. Proceeds from the event will fund the renovation of the Institute's infusion center, where chemotherapy, a significant component of treatment for many cancer patients, is administered.  The renovations will enhance the patients' experience, providing a more comfortable and soothing environment as they receive critical care.

"We are extremely grateful for the outstanding support of General Motors and the GM Foundation," said Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D., president and CEO, Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. "The GM Foundation has consistently supported our innovative cancer research, which is critical for the advancements of new treatment discoveries. In addition, the tremendous contributions from GM over the span of several years demonstrates the company's steadfast commitment to cancer patients and the health and well-being of those in our community."   

To reserve tickets or more information, please contact Lisa Koltunchik at 313-576-8106 or [email protected] or visit http://www.karmanos.org/annualdinner.  

About the GM Foundation
Since its inception in 1976, the GM Foundation has donated hundreds of millions of dollars to American charities, educational organizations and to disaster relief efforts worldwide. The GM Foundation focuses on supporting Education, Health and Human Services, Environment and Energy and Community Development initiatives, mainly in the communities where GM operates. Funding of the GM Foundation comes solely from GM. The last contribution to the GM Foundation was made in 2001. For more information, visit www.gm.com/gmfoundation.

About Cadillac
Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. Today Cadillac is growing globally, driven by an expanding product portfolio featuring dramatic design and technology. More information on Cadillac appears at www.cadillac.com. Cadillac's media website with information, images and video can be found at media.cadillac.com.

About the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute 
Located in mid-town Detroit, Michigan, the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is one of 41 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States. Karmanos is among the nation's best cancer centers. Through the commitment of 1,000 staff, including nearly 300 physicians and researchers on faculty at the Wayne State University School of Medicine, and supported by thousands of volunteer and financial donors, Karmanos strives to prevent, detect and eradicate all forms of cancer. Its long-term partnership with the WSU School of Medicine enhances the collaboration of critical research and academics related to cancer care. Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D., is the Institute's president and chief executive officer. For more information call 1-800-KARMANOS or go to www.karmanos.org.

SOURCE GM Foundation