This September, Ford employees worldwide celebrated Global Caring Month, our annual community service initiative organized by Ford Philanthropy's Ford Volunteer Corps that encourages employees to submit, design, and lead their own volunteer projects. Over 4,000 employees in 29 countries participated in 187 projects this year, focusing on everything from educating youth and community cleanups, to building inclusive communities and promoting access to essential services.

Here's a glimpse into how Ford volunteers made a difference around the globe:

Fueling Hope in Piedra Grande, Mexico

More than 45 Ford volunteers supported Fondo Unido IAP, a nonprofit dedicated to community health, in Piedra Grande, México. They built wood-saving stoves, providing families with a reliable, economically efficient cooking method.  

Karen Rojas, Ford Social Responsibility Coordinator, said, "After partnering with the Piedra Grande community for years, I feel proud to volunteer here. What better way to help our neighbors lead better lives than through Global Caring Month?"
 

Delivering Food for Families in the Philippines

Nearly 30 Ford volunteers and 25 Ford Dealer employees packed and distributed essential food items in the Philippines. Working in partnership with the Gawad Kalinga (GK) Foundation, a nonprofit that works to eradicate poverty through community development, they reached 600 families in GK villages across Metro Manila and Eastern Visayas.

Niko, a Ford Sales Zone Manager, said, "This is my first time joining an activity like this, and it feels good knowing that the work you do positively impacts others."

Combating Hunger in Wittmann, Arizona

At the Arizona Proving Ground, all 10 Ford employees packed 250 food boxes for families in collaboration with Saguaro Janes Food Bank. Each Thursday, up to 250 families visit Saguaro Janes to receive essential services.

Edell Wulff from Saguaro Janes Food Bank said, "What matters most is that the families we serve feel supported, knowing that a local business like Ford is a part of their community and working to help relieve hunger."

Revitalizing Community Spaces in Cologne, Germany

Two dozen Ford volunteers gathered in Cologne's Volksgarten to help revitalize the historic "Swedish House" community center and its surrounding gardens in Germany. Over two days, the team helped clear leaves, care for plants, and build a new wooden hut.

Dirk Dobrzewski, Ford Engineer and volunteer lead, said, "The overwhelming number of returning volunteers on this project speaks to our culture and commitment to giving back."