Frequently Asked Questions 

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Q. What is the Ford Volunteer Corps?

A. The Ford Volunteer Corps is an umbrella organization that makes it easy for Ford employees and retirees around the world to volunteer for corporate citizenship projects in their communities. It incorporates existing volunteer programs and may include partnerships with some community organizations. The corps will help fulfill a core aspect of the "Better World" promise behind our corporate vision of "Great Products. Strong Business. Better World." Back to top

Q. Is this separate from the 16-hour program?

A. Yes and no. Ford Volunteer Corps incorporates existing volunteering programs, including the U.S. salaried 16-hour program. However, the 16-hour Community Service Program is available only to Ford salaried employees, and has special rules and guidelines. For more information on the salaried 16-hour program, see: www.16csp.ford.com. Back to top

Q. Can agency, family members, hourly, intern, suppliers or retirees participate in the 16-hour program?

A. No. This program is for Ford salaried employees only. Company sponsored volunteer events through this program are equivalent to a normal day's work. Back to top

Q. Who are members of the Corps?

A. All employee volunteers are part of the Corps. We estimate that more than 100,000 Ford employees worldwide get involved as volunteers in their communities each year. Back to top

Q. Why is Ford concerned about volunteerism?

A. Volunteerism and community service are part of the Ford culture. Since the beginning of our company in 1903, we have shown deep care and support for the strength of our communities. Employee volunteer efforts complement corporate financial contributions, enhance our visibility in the community, and reinforce our reputation as a good corporate neighbor. Finally, by improving the quality of life where Ford has a presence, we create a better community for ourselves and our neighbors. Back to top

Q. What is the business case for this effort?

A. If we are seen as good corporate citizens, customers are more likely to give serious consideration to buying our products. Our corporate citizenship efforts also assist us in discussions with community leaders, local media organizations and investors. A growing number of investors consider social responsibility before they invest in a company. Also, being recognized as a good corporate citizen can help us attract, motivate and retain bright, caring people, and participation in volunteer programs helps develop leadership and teamwork. Back to top

Q. Who is eligible to participate?

A. All employees and retirees are encouraged to volunteer. As we grow, we hope to broaden participation to include family members and business partners. Back to top

Q. How will my performance evaluation be affected if I participate?

A. Participation in the Ford Volunteer Corps is voluntary and will not be included as part of an employee's performance evaluation. Our senior management team endorses the idea and recognizes that many employees are already participating. They hope that many more employees will embrace the opportunity to improve our communities, enhance Ford's visibility in the community and reinforce our reputation as a good corporate neighbor. Back to top

Q. What should I do if, after committing to a project, I decide that I either can't or don't want to participate?

A. Inform the project team leader of your decision not to participate. It is the team leader's responsibility to inform the agency of any change in the number of volunteers. Back to top

Q. Are the projects U.S.-only or global?

A. Since we are a global company, we will think globally with the Ford Volunteer Corps. In fact, the Corps' first major project is working with Habitat for Humanity International to build homes in the areas hardest hit by the tsunami in Thailand, Sri Lanka and Indonesia. We also are teaming with the Confederation of Indian Industry to adopt a fishing village near our plant in India. Back to top

Q. Can I work on projects outside of my current work location? (e.g., Can a Michigan employee volunteer to work in Asia?)

A. These opportunities will be rare. In the vast majority of cases, volunteer opportunities will be handled by employees who live and work in those communities. Back to top

Q. Will I get paid for my time working on a Volunteer Corps project?

A. Most volunteer projects will take place on your own time. Only projects completed under the U.S. salaried 16-hour or overseas 16-hour program will qualify as paid time. Back to top

Q. Why should I track my volunteer hours?

A. While the Ford Volunteer Corps has been in existence for less than a year, volunteerism has been part of the company's culture since its inception. In fact, Henry Ford once said, "Impacting the lives of others is as important as performing the day-to-day tasks of our jobs." It is critical for the company to have a "big picture" of the impact Ford volunteers are having in our communities. Tracking our volunteer hours gives the Company a strategic advantage.
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