Bill Ford’s Post

Ford Motor Company’s long history of supporting the military was in high gear recently at the first-ever Proud to Honor: Bronco Off-Roadeo. I was honored we could partner with military and veterans organizations to celebrate service and build community through adventure and the thrill of off-roading. Blue Star Families, Guitars For Vets, Inc., Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Travis Manion Foundation, and Team Rubicon - thank you for your partnership in recognizing our amazing veteran community.

I had the opportunity today to thank the thousands of construction workers who worked over the last six years to restore Michigan Central Station. It’s because of these amazing men and women that we will be able to reopen the Station for the community and world on June 6. I loved coming down to the Station during construction and talking to the workers, many of whom said this was the hardest project they have ever worked on. I also heard stories about why this was so meaningful to them. This is where many of their families first arrived in Detroit and it represented all of the possibilities ahead of them. Thank you to everybody who has been part of this incredible journey. I hope you take pride in what this Station will mean for our children and grandchildren. Photo by Stephen McGee.

Giving back to the communities where we live and work has long been at the heart of Ford Motor Company. I am honored to share this update about Ford Philanthropy’s vision for the future, which builds on 75 years of driving positive impact in people’s lives around the world.

Proud to be reporting on sustainability at Ford Motor Company for the 25th year.   In our annual letter, Jim and I talk about our sustainability goals, and how we can reach carbon neutrality by 2050 while still offering choices to all of our customers.

Today, my wife Lisa and I, along with our partner The Children’s Foundation, are publicly launching the Michigan Central Station Children’s Endowment Campaign. This campaign will create endowments that provide lasting support to youth-serving organizations in the Detroit area.   This effort is all part of the exciting re-opening of Michigan Central Station on June 6th. My vision for Michigan Central has always been a commitment to Detroit’s future and ensuring this region never cedes its incredible place in history. Supporting communities is so important to my family, and investing in our youth is a powerful way to build a bright future.   I want to thank the individuals, companies, and foundations that have already been so supportive. This is a great testament to what we can do when we come together.    There is no better time for those who want to support Detroit’s future, so please join us!    https://lnkd.in/eReJUvjd

It was a pleasure to sit down with Jim Farley for an episode on his podcast, DRIVE. We talked about the challenges and surprises of leadership, advice I gave Jim before he started as CEO, the thrill of driving our latest vehicles, the resurgence of Detroit, and more. https://lnkd.in/dZKjp_m2

On June 6th, Michigan Central Station will begin welcoming people back after more than three decades. What was once a symbol of Detroit’s decline will now represent its renewal and bright future. This will be a place that not only embraces our community, but also encourages visitors, the best companies and the smartest talent from around the world to join us in Detroit. I look forward to celebrating together in June!

It’s hard to believe the Rouge power plant explosion happened 25 years ago today. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was the worst day of my life. I could see the smoke from my office window and took off for the elevator. It was a dangerous scene for everyone, including our employees and first responders. Nothing will ever make that experience any less tragic, but I’m very proud of the way we came together as a company to support the grieving families and employees. Beyond sales and profits, we’re a company that cares for each other. That was true 25 years ago, and it’s still true today.

Twenty years ago, I worked with Mayor Mike Duggan and many others to build Ford Field in downtown Detroit with a sense of hope for better days for the city we all love. Later this year, we will reopen Michigan Central, once a symbol of Detroit’s decline and now a key piece of its renewal. It’s been amazing to see the city and the country rally around the Lions and appreciate the unbelievable heart and grit of this region. Go Lions!