Harley-Davidson Shares Big Summer Fundraising Plans for MDA
14 May 1997
Harley-Davidson Shares Big Summer Fundraising Plans for MDA
Harley-Davidson Reaches $25 Million-Mark for Muscular Dystrophy Association
MILWAUKEE, May 14 -- Summer is traditionally a "high season"
for vacations, relaxation and fun. For Harley-Davidson Motor Company
, the summer months will be a peak period for raising charity
dollars.
This summer season, Harley-Davidson dealers, employees and enthusiasts
across the country will begin participating in signature fundraising events
for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), the company's recognized
national charity. Although Harley-Davidson employees, dealers and Harley
Owners Group (HOG) chapters raise money for MDA throughout the year, their
national efforts are stepped up considerably during the summer months by
hosting charity rides in preparation for MDA's annual Labor Day telethon.
Harley-Davidson, its employees, dealers and HOG chapters raised more than
$2.5 million for MDA in 1996, and more than $25 million since affiliating with
the organization in 1980.
"In every market we serve, Harley-Davidson employees, dealers and HOG
chapters develop strong community ties and support local non-profit groups.
Our work with MDA is especially significant because it is a single initiative
that is fully supported by our entire organization," said Richard Teerlink,
Chairman, President and CEO of Harley-Davidson, Inc. "We're proud to see that
our continued commitment has made such a difference."
MDA is a national health agency dedicated to conquering neuromuscular
diseases that affect more than one million Americans. MDA is one of the
world's leading agencies, fostering research and medical care. Programs
available at local MDA offices range from out-patient clinics to summer camps
and support groups.
Harley-Davidson is the fourth-largest national sponsor for MDA.
"It is inspiring to have a national institution like Harley-Davidson
demonstrate such broad and dedicated support to our organization," said
Scarlett Ford-Marchman, Director of Program Development for MDA. "The
commitment we've received from Harley-Davidson over the past 17 years is a
blessing for which we are extremely grateful."
The unofficial kickoff for this summer's fundraising activities was held
in Columbus, Ohio, as part of the 85th anniversary celebration for A.D.
Farrow's, Harley-Davidson's oldest dealership. Farrow's celebration and ride
attracted hundreds of supporters, including Willie G. Davidson,
Harley-Davidson's Vice President of Styling, Martin Jack Rosenblum,
Harley-Davidson's Historian, and Peter Fonda of "Easy Rider" fame.
Hundreds of MDA charity rides are scheduled by Harley-Davidson groups
throughout the nation each year. A few signature events being held during
this year's "high season" include:
-- "Ride for Life" in Pennsylvania, Sunday, May 4. Ride for Life is the
east coast's largest motorcycle ride and rally to benefit MDA and the
second-largest Harley-Davidson MDA fundraiser. This ride attracted more than
4,000 riders this year, raising $568,703 for MDA. Ride for Life is sponsored
by the Eastern Harley-Davidson Dealers Association, a membership of dealers
from Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey. (703-385-7186)
-- "Packerland Ride" in Wisconsin, Saturday, June 7. With Super Bowl XXXI
champion coach Mike Holmgren as the honorary chair, this scenic 100-mile ride
is expected to attract a record number of participants. More than 1,500
riders participated in last year's fundraiser, and this ride will mark the
fourth successful year for the Green Bay HOG chapter. (414-499-4571)
-- "Miracle Ride of the Rockies" in Colorado, Sunday, June 29. This event
attracts bikers from across Colorado and Wyoming. This year, U.S. Senator Ben
Nighthorse Campbell will demonstrate a different style of leadership by
serving as honorary chair for the Miracle Ride. Approximately 2,000
supporters are expected to participate in this 14th annual ride.
(303-691-3331)
-- "Love Ride" in California, Sunday, Nov. 8. For the past 13 years, this
event has been the largest motorcycle fundraiser in the world. The Love Ride
attracted 20,000 people and raised $1 million for MDA in 1996. Sponsored by
Harley-Davidson of Glendale, dealer to the stars, Love Ride draws celebrities
such as Jay Leno, who serves as the grand marshal; Lorenzo Lamas; Bruce
Jenner; Jean Kasem, wife of radio legend Casey Kasem; and Dan Haggerty, the
original Grizzly Adams. (818-246-5618)
For more information on a ride in your area, or other MDA fundraisers,
call a local Harley-Davidson dealer or MDA office.
Harley-Davidson is committed to continuously improving the quality of
relationships with all its stakeholders, including employees and the
community. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Harley-Davidson is the only major
American-based motorcycle manufacturer, employing more than 2,000 area
residents.
SOURCE Harley-Davidson, Inc.