Forward and Upward | Ford Fund Year in Review 2023

At Ford Fund, we partner with communities to move people forward and upward. Through our grantees and Ford volunteers, we made an amazing difference in our Ford communities around the world. Thanks to all of you who participated in giving back this year and championed philanthropic work together with Ford. Here are a few highlights from 2023:

Supporting Disaster Relief Efforts After Hurricane Idalia

In August, Ford Volunteers assisted Team Rubicon after Hurricane Idalia damaged thousands of homes and businesses in Florida. Many homeowners and residents were disconnected from emergency services and left behind with damaged roofs, dangerous mold, and fallen trees. Ford Fund’s longtime partner, Team Rubicon, was on the ground for more than three months serving these communities in need. Through our new Team Rubicon Powered by Ford partnership, employees deployed with Team Rubicon's Greyshirt volunteers to remove debris, clear trees, and help residents get back on their feet.

Tackling Food Insecurity in America

More than 34 million Americans, including 9 million children, are experiencing food insecurity in the U.S. today. Many of these people cannot access the food they need because of limited or no access to transportation. To help bridge that gap, Ford Fund announced a $2.3M commitment expanding access to fresh food through mobile delivery services in a new partnership with DoorDash and Feeding America’s network of food banks.

Building a Diverse Pipeline of Auto Technicians

Despite the annual demand for 258,000 new auto technicians, only 48,000 graduate from technician programs each year nationwide. Earlier this year, Ford Fund collaborated with Elena Ford, Ford dealers and the TechForce Foundation to invest in young people pursuing automotive careers in the Greater Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas and Phoenix areas. Together, we contributed $1 million in scholarship funding to empower 200 passionate students enrolled in postsecondary auto or auto and diesel technician training programs. 

Helping Ford Employees Give Back to Local Communities

Every year, employees have the opportunity to design volunteer projects during Global Caring Month, our month-long give-back initiative during September. This year, employee-led projects included providing STEM mentorship and skill-building to youth in Puerto Rico and cleaning a riverbank to improve water quality and raise environmental awareness in China.

Addressing Transportation Barriers Through Mobility Solutions

Did you know that one in four Americans lack access to safe, reliable, affordable transportation options? Through a $5 million investment and partnerships with over a dozen nonprofit organizations, we're helping bridge the gap between transportation-limited communities and access to resources and services, including healthcare and fresh food. Some of our partners include United Way of Southeastern Michigan's "Ride United" program and Feonix - Mobility Rising, a nonprofit organization focused on removing transportation barriers in under-resourced communities.

It's been amazing to see all the inspiring stories of progress throughout the year that have kept the Ford Fund motivated and focused on our mission. Thanks again to all of you who have volunteered and supported our company’s philanthropic and community-based work.