Ford Freedom Unsung Award Winners Announced

·       Ford to recognize winners of Ford Freedom Unsung in Southern California

·       Kevin Frazier to host awards event, actress KeKe Palmer 

to serve as program ambassador

·       20 winners selected from more than 130 nominees

DEARBORN, Mich., June 10, 2013 – Ford Motor Company today announces the winners of the Ford Freedom Unsung Award, celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions in their communities. Honorees will be recognized for their outstanding achievements at a special reception at The Grammy Museum at L.A. Live June 19.

Made possible by a grant from Ford Motor Company Fund, Ford Freedom Unsung salutes individuals and organizations that have positively impacted communities with achievements that inform and inspire others.

“This program shines a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to positively impact communities, but are often not recognized for what they do,” said Pamela Alexander, director of community development, Ford Motor Company Fund. “Whether it is a mother who tutors children, a brother who sacrificed years serving his country, a neighbor who leads a nonprofit organization or a father who has dedicated his life to serving the homeless, unsung heroes surround us every day and look for nothing in return.”

Ford is bringing its national program to Southern California as part of its ongoing commitment to honor distinguished Americans who dedicate their lives to improving their communities and the world. Awards are given in five categories: Community, Education, Military, Youth and Organization.

Award-winning actress KeKe Palmer, known for her commitment to bullying prevention and other youth issues, will serve as the program’s youth ambassador.

Kevin Frazier, co-anchor of “The Insider,” will serve as master of ceremonies. The recognition program will include a special performance by actor/singer Sheryl Lee Ralph.

The 2013 Ford Freedom Unsung-Southern California awards will be given to:

Community

Wilfred “Bill” Coggins

Rita Hall

Sherri Pegues

Areva Martin

William Allen Young

Education

Angela M. Evans

Haywood Galbreath

Darlene Jernigan

E. Elaine Moore

Derek Richardson

Military

Patricia Jackson Kelley

Ivan Mason

Youth

Justice Reigns Ferguson

Shauniece Frazier

Carey Poindexter

Organization  

Gang Alternatives Program

Jenesse Center Inc.

New Directions for Veterans

A New Way of Life Reentry Project

Starting Over Inc. 

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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 175,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.