Revving the Engines of Change

The smell of burning rubber and the roar of engines echoed across M1 Concourse as guests at United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s Rev United lined up for high-speed rides around the track.

“I don’t drive fast as a rule, so it was amazing, exhilarating,” said Bob Aiello, director of business development at the Diez Group. “You get to see what these cars can really do, and you don’t drive them that way anywhere else.”

Powered by collaboration between Ford, Stellantis and Bosch, Rev United brought together leaders from the automotive community for an evening of connection, excitement and giving back.

“Nights like tonight remind us of the power of collaboration and working together because no one organization can do this alone,” said Peter Tadros, regional president of Power Solutions at Bosch. “It is the commitment of organizations like United Way, along with the people who support them, that help create lasting change in our community.

“That collective dedication is what brings us together this evening.”

Guests began the night by browsing a silent auction featuring signed jerseys, racing gear, Lions Tickets, artwork, racing classes and more. During cocktail hour, automotive professionals connected over industry, community and a shared commitment to giving back.

“I thank the United Way for serving as a vessel for all these leaders to share their fruits and benefits with others,” said Marc Bland from Mobility Global. “Whether that be overall knowledge, wisdom, job opportunities, training or financial resources.

“When you achieve something, it’s your duty to give back, help others see the light and avoid some of the pitfalls, so they can go beyond where you are— that’s just natural human progression.”

The generosity of this year’s supporters raised a record breaking $450,000, bringing the event’s three-year total to over $860,000 to support local families.

The list of sponsors powering impact included Ford, Stellantis, Bosch, Piston Group, Boldt, Dauch, KUKA, Mobility Global, Rehmann, Walbridge, AH Group, Autoliv, BorgWarner, Dakkota, Diez Group, Flex-N-Gate, KPMG, OneMagnify, Deloitte, EY and Huf North America.

RACING TO GIVE

After smiling through a drift ride, Ford’s Strategy and Financial Planner Lindsey McGowan stood near the racetrack watching the cars go by.

“I’m really happy to bring my family here today; my brother and dad are out there now,” said Lindsey. “We’re car people so this is a really fun event for us.”

Lindsey was first introduced to United Way by running for Team Bronco in this year’s Run United virtual marathon. Reflecting on why she stays involved, she reminisced on the impact of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) Classroom Materials Grants.

“I’m really grateful to be involved with United Way,” said Lindsey. “Helping teachers— it makes me feel emotional because everyone has one teacher that impacted them and it’s devastating to see how much they pay out of pocket.”

As the sun set, donors moved into the dining room for a gourmet buffet equipped with lounge seating and lively band. Local leaders began to speak on community needs.

“In supply chain, we know one disruption can create ripple effects across the entire system,” said Liz Door, chief supply chain officer at Ford. “For families, it can be the same— one unexpected expense, one missed paycheck, one emergency can put stability at risk.”

“We all know the pressures continue to mount for families in Michigan and so that’s why United Way’s role is so critical,” continued Liz. “They connect resources, volunteers and companies like all of you here tonight in a way that no other single organization can.”

Attendees learned that 41% of families in our region are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed), meaning they cannot afford their basic needs.

“These are people that have jobs, some have multiple jobs, and they’re still struggling to make ends meet,” said Ralph Gilles, chief design officer at Stellantis. “So that’s where we come in, we’re the bridge trying to get that person through that tough time.”

Motivated to help local families, attendees then turned that understanding into action, bidding on a live auction featuring a day racing with Ford’s CEO Jim Farley, an Indy 500 ticket package, a F1 US Grand Prix experience and lunches with local industry giants.

By the end of the night, the energy at M1 Concourse had become something much bigger than an evening of racing and networking. It was a reminder of what’s possible when people unite and use their influence and resources to move our community forward.

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