Chevy Corvette Stingray Auction Helps Raise $2.2M For Karmanos Cancer Institute
DETROIT -- The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute's Annual Dinner, April 20, has already raised more than $2.2 million toward its $2.5 million goal, thanks in part to the auction of the first regular retail production 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible, donated by Chevrolet.
The vehicle went for $1 million at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Palm Beach, Fla., April 5. The winning bid came from Hendrick Automotive Group Chairman and Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick, an avid Corvette collector.
One hundred percent of the auction's proceeds, in addition to generous gifts from other sponsors, make up the more than $2.2 million raised-to-date. Donations benefit the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit and will support cancer care and a new clinical core lab.
"This is yet another example of what makes Rick Hendrick a great man, a great friend, and a great competitor," said Mark Reuss, president, General Motors North America. "Whether battling other race teams on the track or fighting cancer in the research lab, Rick is a guy I'd want on my side."
Chevrolet donated the highly coveted sports car as part of General Motors' support for the Karmanos Cancer Institute and its upcoming 31st Annual Dinner, of which Chevrolet is Host Sponsor. Event Chairs are Mark and Kim Reuss. Karmanos Cancer Institute is one of only 41 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the country.
The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible offers all of the uncompromising performance of the coupe, including an estimated 450 horsepower and a 0-to-60 acceleration time of four seconds, according to GM. In addition, its all-new, fully electronic top can be lowered remotely and opened or closed at speeds of up to 30 mph.
Barrett-Jackson was established in 1971 and specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world.
"We were honored that Chevrolet selected Barrett-Jackson to make the sale of its first production 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible at our Palm Beach auction," said Barrett-Jackson Chairman and CEO Craig Jackson. "My passion for unique, high-end cars is matched by my enthusiasm to raise money through our auctions for great charities, such as the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. It's evident that Rick Hendrick shares this same enthusiasm and we couldn't be happier that he purchased both the Stingray coupe back at our Scottsdale auction in January, and now the convertible in Palm Beach."
The donation of this collectible vehicle demonstrates GM's outstanding commitment to the Karmanos Cancer Institute. In addition, for the second consecutive year, the GM Foundation has generously donated $400,000 to cancer research, bringing GM and the GM Foundation's total support of Karmanos to nearly $7.4 million over the last 16 years.
"The commitment of GM and the GM Foundation to further the Karmanos Cancer Institute's innovative cancer research and exceptional patient care is nothing short of magnificent," said Gerold Bepler, M.D., Ph.D., president and CEO of Karmanos. "From the company's top leadership to its employees and partners, GM's investment to improve life for those diagnosed with cancer and significantly impact our global fight to end this disease is truly outstanding. We are extremely grateful to GM and the GM Foundation, the team at Barrett-Jackson, Mr. Hendrick and all our sponsors and supporters for the incredible generosity, moving us closer to a world without cancer."
The Karmanos Cancer Institute's 31st Annual Dinner is Saturday, April 20, at the General Motors' Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center, 2500 East Grand Boulevard in Detroit. Event Chairs Mark and Kim Reuss will be joined by emcee Ruth Spencer, anchor and consumer reporter for WDIV Local 4.
The elegant evening will feature a cocktail reception; seated dinner; entertainment by DJ Brad Hales and Motown legends The Four Tops; dancing; a raffle of a stunning 18-kt. white gold, pave set diamond bangle bracelet from Tapper's Diamond & Fine Jewelry; and brief program. There will also be an exciting live auction featuring unique VIP experience packages. The event benefits the critical work of Karmanos researchers and physicians who are creating the next standard of cancer care that will be used around the world.
Tickets for Karmanos' Annual Dinner are $750 per person for Benefactor level, which includes priority seating; and Patron level tickets are $525 per person.
To reserve tickets, please contact Lisa Koltunchik at (313) 576-8106 or koltuncl@karmanos.org. You may also visit Karmanos' 2013 Annual Dinner to reserve tickets online. Companies interested in sponsorship opportunities for the dinner should contact Maureen Bender at (313) 576-8111 or benderm@karmanos.org.
The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is one of 41 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States. Caring for nearly 6,000 new patients annually on a budget of $265 million, conducting more than 700 cancer-specific scientific investigation programs and clinical trials, Karmanos has 1,000 staff, including nearly 300 physicians and researchers on faculty at the Wayne State University School of Medicine, and supported by thousands of volunteer and financial donors.
More at www.karmanos.org.
