A total of $40,000 will be donated to local charities this fall as part of a “Giving Thanks” campaign launched by Freedom Toyota in Hamburg and Harrisburg.  Donations will be made in increments of $5,000 to organizations nominated by local residents.  From November 19 through December 21, area residents are invited to nominate charities online at http://www.facebook.com/FreedomAutoGroup.  Winners will be chosen at random each week and Freedom Toyota, in conjunction with Toyota Corporation, will donate $ 5,000 to each cause.  The only requirement is that the nominated cause be a registered 501 (c) (3) non-profit.

“The need to help friends and neighbors here and in surrounding areas is especially evident in light of recent weather and financial-related tragedies,” says Eric Savage, president of Freedom Toyota.  “We want to find those most in need and help them in a meaningful way.  So we’re asking local residents to recommend deserving charities.”

He explains further, “The more times a charity is nominated on our Facebook page, the more chances that group has of being drawn a winner.  This is an opportunity for the public to show their gratitude by helping worthy causes.  Whether the nominated cause supports veterans, shelters abandoned pets, serves special needs children, or provides disaster relief for families, we will honor their choices with a cash donation.”

Giving back to the community is not new to Savage whose passion for public service has become a hallmark of the auto company he heads.  His community involvement is so widespread that he has been named 2012 “Outstanding Philanthropist” by the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Berks County Chapter.  The award recognizes extraordinary philanthropic achievements within the community. 

Savage says, “Giving back to the community is a core value at Freedom Auto.  I hope it will be the legacy for which we are most remembered.”