Chrysler Group LLC Challenges Employees to Embrace Volunteerism Focused on Child Hunger

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Jun 28, 2012, 09:00 ET

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., June 28, 2012

Chrysler Group mobilizes its more than 57,000 employees to volunteer and get the word out about United Way Summer Meals Program.
1 in 5 Michigan children struggle to access nutritious food.
Only 15 percent of children eligible for free summer meals take advantage of the program.

Chrysler Group LLC and United Way for Southeastern Michigan (UWSEM) are teaming up to fight against the epidemic of childhood hunger that has plagued the region in recent years. Chrysler Group is calling its more than 57,000 employees to tap their energy and the company's spirit of volunteerism to help the hungry and to spread understanding and utilization of UWSEM's programs.

"We are in a unique position – as a company that has been to hell and back – to provide a beacon of hope," said Sergio Marchionne, Chrysler Group Chairman and CEO. "We can choose to make a positive difference in the world. It's time for us to help generate a turning point within our community for people in need."

Marchionne is serving as this year's UWSEM campaign chair. In this role, his primary responsibility is to promote growth, fundraising and educational efforts for the campaign throughout the community. Ending child hunger is one of the biggest areas of concern for UWSEM. The organization's Michigan No Kid Hungry program provides free meals to children in need throughout the summer and school year across Southeastern Michigan.

Chrysler is rallying its employees to pledge to do their part to end childhood hunger by increasing awareness about the United Way's Summer Meals Programs, volunteering in food-related community service activities and by gathering food donations at the company's Southeastern Michigan facilities. To sign the pledge and get involved, employees and the public can go to the United Way web site (http://www.liveunitedsem.org/ChryslerPledges).

To enable and encourage these types of activities, Chrysler recently announced a new corporate policy that allows employees to use up to 18 hours per year of their normal working hours to take part in company-sponsored charitable or public-service activities.

"Building awareness of the United Way's school and summer food programs is the key to reducing child hunger," said Michael Brennan, President and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. "The most basic need for all people is food and nutrition. As more families are faced with dwindling resources, they often do not have enough money to purchase the food they need and are unaware that assistance is as easy as dialing 2-1-1. That's why it is important for major corporations such as Chrysler to use their energy and resources to spread the message."

In 2011, through the generosity of Chrysler Group employee pledges, including UAW and CAW represented employees, more than $4.6 million was donated to United Way campaigns in the U.S. and in Canada. In addition, during the year hundreds of Chrysler Group employees volunteered thousands of hours to support United Way agencies and activities - from Pontiac to Detroit, Warren, Fraser and more communities in the state where their time and resources were needed to help others.

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.

About Chrysler Group LLC
Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 to establish a global strategic alliance with Fiat S.p.A., produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Mopar, SRT and Fiat vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler Group's culture of innovation, first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925, and Fiat's complementary technology that dates back to its founding in 1899.

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group's product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300 and Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Durango, Ram 1500, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and Fiat 500. Fiat contributes world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-size cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.

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SOURCE Chrysler Group LLC