NEW ORLEANS, July 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota built on its
long-term commitment to the U.S. Hispanic community at the 2013
National Council of La Raza (NCLR) Annual Conference in
New Orleans this past weekend by
celebrating Latina entrepreneurs and giving away a 2014 RAV4 to a
deserving attendee.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130724/CL52470 )
As the No. 1 car brand among Hispanics, Toyota sponsored the
gathering for the 14th year, reinforcing its commitment to
education, empowerment and giving back to the communities in which
it operates.
In a speech at the conference's popular Latinas Brunch, Toyota
Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Senior
Vice President of Automotive Operations Bob
Carter showcased the company's long-standing relationship
with Latino customers, employees and suppliers. He recognized Rosa
Santana, an outstanding Latina entrepreneur, who despite her humble
beginnings now runs a successful human resources business with
clients in the U.S. and Mexico.
She is now a major supplier for Toyota thanks to the company's
"Opportunity Exchange" program.
"The Hispanic community has a steadfast friend in Toyota," said
Carter. "We know that we can't be successful in this country unless
we partner with Latinos and Latinas like Rosa Santana." Carter added that Toyota spends
more than $1 billion each year with
minority and women-owned businesses, one of only 18 companies to
reach that level. He continued, "Latinos buy more Toyotas than any
other automotive brand – a ranking we have enjoyed since 2004.
Believe me; Toyota does not take your loyalty for granted. We thank
you and value your continued support of our company."
Toyota showed its appreciation of Hispanic consumer brand
loyalty by giving away a 2014 RAV4 to a lucky contest winner who
best answered the question, "Where would you go in the new RAV4 and
why?" Amparo Nunez of Tampa was selected from approximately 600
entries based on her answer stating that she would use the car to
transport migrant workers in her remote farming community to the
city to seek medical care. Carter presented the vehicle with the
keys during the Latinas Brunch.
Rounding out Toyota's presence at the conference was a booth at
the National Latino Family Expo. Grammy Award-winning international
singing star Jon Secada met hundreds of fans and signed autographs.
Visitors were able to see 2013 models of the Toyota Tundra, Camry
and Prius, and get a sneak peek at the 2014 Corolla. The company
also promoted its Buckle Up For Life program. The national,
community-based injury prevention initiative, developed with
Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, was created to
address the economic, cultural and, where appropriate, language
barriers to motor vehicle safety. Toyota provided demonstrations on
proper car seat installation and usage and raffled off more than15
new child car seats.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE: TM) established operations
in the United States in 1957 and
currently operates 10 manufacturing plants. Toyota directly employs
over 31,000 in the United States
and its investment here is currently valued at more than
$19.5 billion, including sales and
manufacturing operations, research and development, financial
services and design.
Toyota is committed to being a good corporate citizen in the
communities where it does business and believes in supporting
programs with long-term sustainable results. Toyota supports
numerous organizations across the country, focusing on education,
the environment and safety. Since 1991, Toyota has contributed more
than $700 million to philanthropic
programs in the United States.
For more information on Toyota's commitment to improving
communities nationwide, visit http://www.toyota.com/community.
SOURCE Toyota