DaimlerChrysler Donates Funds for Senior Citizens
4 December 1998
DaimlerChrysler Donates Funds Toward Keeping Senior Citizens Mobile and IndependentAUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 3 -- As adults reach the golden years, staying active and mobile is often a concern. That's why the nonprofit organization Independence for Life (IFL) was founded -- to provide transportation resources to the elderly so they will remain active, mobile and productive within their communities. That's also why the DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund donated $300,000 toward IFL's Senior Courtesy Van Program -- to contribute to the well-being of senior citizens and thriving communities. The proceeds will be used toward purchasing new vans and wheelchair-lift equipment. Currently, IFL operates a fleet of 90 vans. Since 1986, IFL has provided over 250 vehicles to nonprofit organizations. Most organizations keep the vehicles a maximum of five years or 100,000 miles. "The senior citizen community is important to DaimlerChrysler Corporation and to the communities to which they belong," said Jim Holden, Executive Vice President - Sales and Marketing and Minivan Operations, and a DaimlerChrysler Management Board Member. "They are active contributors to society and DaimlerChrysler Corporation is glad to provide transportation accessibility to help them maintain the lifestyle they are accustomed to and appreciate." Holden is a member of IFL's Board of Directors and E. Thomas Pappert, former Chrysler Vice President - Sales and Service, is the Chairman. The Senior Courtesy Van Program provides vehicles to nonprofit organizations to transport senior citizens. Nearly 70 percent of the vehicles are wheelchair-lift equipped. Senior citizens who have the service in their area use it at least once a week for transportation to grocery and drug stores, financial institutions, medical, educational and recreational facilities and to volunteer employment. To qualify for the Senior Courtesy Van Program, organizations must be a 501(c)(3) organization, in business at least three years, have stable funding, a minimum of 50 senior citizens to service and demonstrate the ability to operate a program. IFL was founded in 1986 and provides transportation to the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, the St. Rose Senior Center (Detroit), White Lake (Mich.) Township, the City of Detroit Housing Department and many other organizations.