United Way for Southeastern Michigan announced today that Gary Johnson, Ford chief manufacturing and labor affairs officer, will serve as Campaign Cabinet chair for the remainder of the 2019-2020 campaign. Johnson replaces Ford Motor Company Automotive President Joe Hinrichs, who is retiring on March 1.
Johnson, a 33-year veteran of Ford, has worked in manufacturing positions throughout North America and Asia. He oversees Ford’s global manufacturing operations, as well as Ford’s Material Planning & Logistics, Ford Production System, Manufacturing Business Office and Labor Affairs organizations. He served as the chair of the Ford United Way campaign this past year and serves on the United Way board of directors.
“As we continue to help create stable households in our community where children can thrive, we are excited Gary has taken on the leadership challenge of raising much-needed funds and encouraging significant volunteer impact across Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties,” said Darienne Driver Hudson, Ed. D., president and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Johnson said he looks forward to continuing Ford’s commitment to the United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “While I’m new to the Campaign Cabinet, I’m not new to United Way,” said Johnson. “I recognize the important role United Way plays in our community and I am excited to partner with the Board and staff toward meeting revenue and volunteer goals.”
Hinrichs took over as Campaign Cabinet chair in 2018. In the 2018-19 campaign, United Way set an aggressive goal of raising $46 million, then exceeded that target and raised $47.4 million. Campaign members also generated 36,000 hours of volunteer contributions.
“It takes a special leader to be a United Way campaign chairperson. We are so thankful to Joe for his passion and dedication to the communities we serve throughout Southeastern Michigan. His amazing leadership has helped us impact thousands of individuals and families,” said Dr. Hudson.
United Way serves Southeastern Michigan, working with public, private and nonprofit partners to improve lives and empower families to succeed.
To learn more about United Way and efforts to help those in need, visit UnitedWaySEM.org.
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About United Way for Southeastern Michigan
United Way for Southeastern Michigan, a member of the United Way Worldwide network and an independently governed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, works to ensure families can meet their basic needs, children are ready for school and that people are equipped with skills to build a better life. For more than 100 years, United Way has been a leader in creating positive, measurable and permanent change in communities it serves throughout southeast Michigan, working in partnership with donors, agency, corporate and municipal partners. To give, advocate, volunteer or learn more, visit UnitedWaySEM.org.