Mazda’s Red Cross support unusual in its scope

Automakers are one of the most generous groups in terms of charitable giving. Mazda’s generosity is notable even given that fact.

When disaster strikes the automotive manufacturers of the world tend to step up big time. Not only can they provide cash, but they can provide vehicles, equipment, personnel and more. It would be disingenuous to say that Mazda is unusual in its support of good causes, but one thing that makes Mazda notable is that the company’s giving extends to the support of important organizations before the headlines are made by a tragedy.

This week Mazda donated $500,000 to the Red Cross. Mazda is the first automaker to step up and donate to the organization’s Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP). Members of this program provide funding that enables the Red Cross be prepared before disaster strikes. The funding enables the critical infrastructure to be created so that when needed, the group is already prepared.

Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North America said "Mazda is honored to not only partner with the American Red Cross, but to also be an official member of its Annual Disaster Giving Program. Our Mazda Drive for Good program has enabled all of us at Mazda to focus on giving back to our local communities and our nation as a whole, so it was a natural fit for us to partner with a great organization like American Red Cross."

In addition to the financial funding Mazda sponsors employee blood drives. The Red Cross is funded by the generosity of the people that donate to it and staffed significantly by volunteers.