“UAW Quality Representative Angela Dulaney (left) accepts the 2025 April Food Day Community Leadership Award on behalf of United Auto Workers Local 551, presented by Deborah Stevens, Chief Executive Officer, Perspectives Charter Schools, and United Way of Metro Chicago South-Southwest Suburban Regional Board Member.
Every year, Chicago’s Ford team comes together to make a difference through its employee giving campaign – and support United Way of Metro Chicago’s work. Employees from Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant have always stepped up in a big way, raising nearly $3 million over the last decade.
Ford’s generosity does not stop there. Together with United Way and the Chicago Federation of Labor, employees have collaborated on many projects to benefit their neighboring communities. One of these early collaborations was building removeable ramps for residents in the Oak Lawn area who had a physically disabled family member. The ramps allowed families, some of whom include a Ford employee, to stay in their homes.
“The ramp project made a tangible difference in the lives of dozens of individuals and families by providing wheelchair ramps that helped break down barriers and improve accessibility for those who need it most,” said Maya Hardy, Regional Director of Development, South-Southwest, for United Way of Metro Chicago. “United Way is always proud to partner with Ford to support communities through their initiatives.”
Ford employees have also joined United Way and the Chicago Federation of Labor at the Chicago Pride Parade and have hosted activities to drum up donations during their campaign. Their giving spirit aligns with Ford’s mission to connect with the communities they work in.
The Ford Chicago Assembly Plant’s union, United Auto Workers Local 551 (UAW Local 551), was awarded United Way’s 2025 April Food Day Community Leadership Award, recognizing the dedication of UAW 551 Chairman Alan “Coby” Millender, and UAW Quality Representatives Angela Dulaney and Kayekethia Evans.
“I am honored to accept the award on behalf of Local 551,” Angela said. “The recognition means so much to me this year, with every member of our team who has contributed [to United Way]. Together we continue to build not just cars but a better future for our plant, for our union, and for our community.”
Join Ford and UAW Local 551 and build a stronger Chicago region.