The FINANCIAL — Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary fundraising for the Muscular Dystrophy Association reached $6.7 million surpassing its original $6 million goal for 105th Anniversary fundraising.
The 2008 total brings cumulative 28-year fundraising for MDA to more than $71 million. The announcement was made during Harley-Davidson’s Anniversary celebration in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The announcement will be broadcast on the annual Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon.
Harley-Davidson Chief Executive Officer Jim Ziemer was joined by Motor Company President and Chief Operating Officer Jim McCaslin and Senior Vice-President and Chief Styling Officer Willie G. Davidson to make the final check announcement. Â
Harley-Davidson MDA Goodwill Ambassador Luke Christie accepted the $6.7 million check on behalf of the children and families served by MDA. “The Harley-Davidson family rides for us,” said Christie at the final total announcement. “These are the friendliest and nicest people on the planet and they care deeply about Jerry’s Kids.”
Christie, 15 and a resident of Due West, South Carolina, visits dealer and customer events throughout the country on behalf of Harley-Davidson and MDA.
Harley-Davidson fundraising activities for the Muscular Dystrophy Association took place throughout the year and culminated with Harley-Davidson’s 105th Anniversary. Fundraising activities included pledge rides, dealer fundraisers, motorcycle raffles, Black and Blue Ball fundraising dinners, auctions and pin sales. Top MDA fundraisers were given the honor of leading the company's 105th anniversary parade through the streets of Milwaukee.
Harley-Davidson has been a national sponsor of the Muscular Dystrophy Association since 1980. The family of Harley-Davidson dealers, customers, H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) members, suppliers and employees raise funds to support life-saving research, comprehensive medical care for children and adults with neuromuscular disease, and MDA summer camps.
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