Dealer Group Stops United Way Donations Citing Planned Parenthood Connection

A dealer group out of Michigan has decided to stop funding contributions to United Way in late November due to its connection to Planned Parenthood. As reported by LifeNews, The Bill Marsh Auto Group, out of Traverse City, Michigan will discontinue their participation in the Northwest Michigan workplace contribution program. The NWM contribution effort provides funds to United Way, however, the group does not want to support United Way if they support Planned Parenthood.

Bill Marsh Jr., partner in the group, met with a representative from United Way about the decision on the part of the group to discontinue donations. In his conversation with the United Way representative, Marsh reportedly said, “I said, ‘In light of what’s been disclosed, it’s just not something we can turn a blind eye to. As long as you continue to support Planned Parenthood, we’re not going to give you access to our employees.” Marsh reportedly also met with the local United Way president and repeated his stance against Planned Parenthood in light of the highly controversial videos involving the organization, which surfaced this summer.

Marsh feels the stance on the part of the Bill Marsh Auto Group will have a positive outcome. As reported by LifeNews Marsh said, “I really think people are attracted to people and organizations that take a stand, for the right reasons—standing up for their convictions, even if they don’t necessarily agree.” Marsh further explained, “Whether it’s in the marketplace of ideas, the public square, we have a duty…to understand the implications of choices and actions we make as citizens. As business people, we have leverage. Money talks. You generate a certain amount of influence—by donations, as well as how you treat your customers and employees, your reputation, your brand. It goes go a long way towards influencing.”

Do you think businesses that take a stand on social or political issues are respected regardless of whether or not you agree with their position? What other examples have you seen of dealers making headlines by taking a position for what they felt were the right reasons?