GM CEO Gives To Detroit Schools

GM's top boss plans to make a $10,000 personal donation to support Detroit Public Schools athletics.

General Motors Co. CEO Dan Akerson is expected to make the donation Friday, inaugurating what he says will be increased involvement in the city. The donation will be made by the Akerson family's Blue Earth Foundation, which focuses on child education and welfare.

Akerson believes his charitable act is part and parcel of being a good citizen.

"People that are given must give back"  he said. "I've been very fortunate, and I want to be a part of the community."

Akerson's gift is expected to mark renewed efforts by the Detroit-based automaker to re-engage in the city's civic and charitable causes. Those efforts have been stymied since GM entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy last year.

Akerson said his foundation will donate more to Detroit organizations, but they likely will not be publicized. He also hopes to become more active in Detroit's civic life.

Copyright 2010 WWJ Radio. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.