GM Foundation Matching Gift Program Boosts United Way

Donations up to $100,000, dollar for dollar, will help Network of Excellence schools

DETROIT, Dec. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The General Motors Foundation today announced that it will match up to $100,000, dollar for dollar, in donations to United Way for Southeastern Michigan by Dec. 31, 2011. To give, visit: www.LiveUnitedSEM.org/DoubleYourGift.

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"One of the most important challenges in our community today is the education of our young people – ensuring that kids enter kindergarten ready to learn and that at the very least they obtain a high school degree," said Michael J. Brennan, president and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

"A year ago, we received unprecedented grant funding from the GM Foundation to establish a 'Networks of Excellence' initiative that supports seven turnaround high schools in the region and the development of Early Learning Communities in each of those schools," Brennan said.

Early indicators show the model is succeeding in reducing chronic absences and improving graduation rates.

"But there is so much more left to be done and we are grateful that the GM Foundation is giving United Way another boost through its generous year-end match program," Brennan said.   

"Whether United Way receives $50 or $5,000, every dollar matters. The GM Foundation's match is intended to inspire individual, community and corporate donors to double the value of their gift to United Way between now and the end of the year," said GM Foundation President Vivian Pickard.

"Our commitment to match grants from the community will help enable the United Way to bolster education and other programs to bring a better quality of life to those in need," she said.

About the General Motors Foundation
Since its inception in 1976, the General Motors Foundation has helped to strengthen communities across the United States through investments in Education, Health/Human Services, Environment/Energy and Community Development.  Over the past ten years, the foundation has donated more than $350 million to send students to college, educate parents on how to keep children safe in and around vehicles, promote diversity and support vital non-profit organizations.  For more information, please visit www.gm.com/gmfoundation.

About General Motors
General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets.  GM's brands include Chevrolet and Cadillac, as well as Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.

About United Way for Southeastern Michigan
United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Campaign and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.LiveUnitedSEM.org.

SOURCE United Way for Southeastern Michigan