The Auto Show’s Charity Preview, which took place last Friday, has earned serious commendations after it raised millions of dollars for Metro Detroit children’s charities. A stunning $3,920,700 was raised at the event, which is known worldwide for being the single largest single-night fundraising event.
The money raised by the event will go to nine different children’s charities. A total of 13,069 people attended the event, the “2013 North American International Auto Show Charity Preview.” The black tie event was, of course, also full of stunning cars for guests to “ooh” and “aah” over.
Jim Seavitt, who is chairman of the NAIAS 2013 was quite pleased with the turnout. “I’m tired and my feet are sore, but I am thrilled that the people of Detrout and Southeast Michigan have once again opened their hearts for our kids,” he said. “I have seen, from personal experience, the benefits that these funds provide, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of one of the greatest events which provides the us the opportunity to do so much for so many.”
The event hasn’t raised this much money since 2008. Last year’s event had about 12,000 guests and raised $3 million, which means this year showed a more than thirty percent increase in funds raised.
The charities that will benefit include the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, Boys and Girls Hope Detroit, Children’s Center, The Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation, The Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, The Detroit Institute of Children, Judson Center, March of Dimes Metro Detroit, and Think Detroit PAL.
The event has raised over $90 million since 1976. Tickets to the event this year cost $300, with $290 being tax deductible. The public can see the show through January 27th. It features a total of around 60 vehicles that debuted from the world’s finest automakers.