Detroit’s celebration as the epicenter of all things automotive, including the heart of the automotive industry, was again demonstrated last week as nearly $5.2 million was raised for children’s charities at the 2017 North American International Auto Show’s (NAIAS) Charity Preview at Cobo Center.
As the largest annual single-night fundraiser in the world, Charity Preview has raised more than $111 million for southeastern Michigan children’s charities since the Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) established the gala 41 years ago.
In all, 12,881 people attended the black-tie Charity Preview, presented for the second consecutive year by Axalta Coating Systems.
Charity Preview follows on the heels of five days of total mobility immersion at NAIAS, including the inaugural AutoMobili-D that continues to generate social media buzz and discussion among automotive, business and tech industry executives worldwide. Vice President Joe Biden joined in that conversation with a visit to NAIAS on Tuesday – his second to NAIAS as Vice President of the United States.
“The past five days at NAIAS have exemplified the transformation that is reshaping the auto industry as we know it,” said 2017 NAIAS Chairman Sam Slaughter. “Tonight’s Charity Preview continues with the theme of transformation in that the monies raised in this one single night will help in some way to transform the lives of children and families in our local community.”
Proceeds from Charity Preview directly benefit a wide range of children’s charities. Funds raised will support services for children of all ages from birth to 18.
Beneficiaries of NAIAS Charity Preview include:
• Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan
• Boys Hope Girls Hope Detroit
• Children’s Center
• Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation
• Judson Center
• March Of Dimes Metro Detroit
• Detroit PAL
• DADA Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
Public Show at NAIAS opens, Jan. 14 at 9 a.m. and continues through Sunday, Jan. 22. Ticket prices and general show information, including transportation and parking can be found at naias.com.
