Chrysler Group Gives $1 Million to Arab-American organization -ACCESS

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 22 Chrysler Group President and Chief Executive Officer Dieter Zetsche presented the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS) with a $1 million contribution to its Heritage Campaign Fund on Saturday, April 20, at the organization's 31st anniversary celebration.

Addressing a sell-out crowd of more than 2,200 at Detroit's Cobo Center, Zetsche said, ``ACCESS has long been recognized in the community as a provider of economic and social services to Arab immigrants to help them adapt to life in their new country and to break down the barriers of language and culture.

``It is evident that ACCESS has done much to foster a greater understanding of our diverse community and should be commended for helping promote cultural and economic vitality in the Arab-American community,'' Zetsche said.

The $1 million gift will be used for three special projects: a community health center, a youth and family center, and a museum and cultural center. The Chrysler Group has partnered with ACCESS on a number of projects including the annual Concert of Colors, the one-of-a-kind concert series that links Detroit's diverse ethnic population through music.

``Prosperity in the global economy requires greater understanding and tolerance among all members of the community, which is more important today than ever,'' Zetsche said. ``We take seriously our role as a leader and catalyst in building a strong society and are dedicated to making a difference in the world around us.''

The DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund, the Company's philanthropic arm, has been supporting local communities and has contributed millions to charitable and non-profit organizations around the world for the past 50 years.

``We are very pleased that we can support the work of ACCESS,'' said W. Frank Fountain, President of the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund. ``The nature of giving has changed a great deal since the Fund was established, but our commitment to providing funding, leadership and guidance to those doing good work remains steady. Together, we can work toward the goal of achieving peace in the world.''