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OnStar Celebrates Anniversary with $400,000 First Responders Donation

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OnStar celebrates 20th anniversary by donating money to first responders

Today OnStar announced that it had chosen to celebrate its 20th anniversary by donating $20,000 each to 20 public safety personnel who have been injured in the line of duty.

According to GM, the 20 first responders recognized by OnStar were chosen with the help of the International Association of Chiefs of Police Foundation (IACPF), Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) – Sunshine Fund, the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT).

“Each day OnStar receives more than 245,000 calls from drivers in need of some support, so we understand the importance of a human connection, especially in an emergency situation,” said Christine Sitek, OnStar chief operating officer for General Motors’ Global Connected Customer Experience team. “The first responder community plays a vital role in working with OnStar advisors to quickly deliver emergency services to our drivers and passengers in need. We couldn’t have become a leader in safety and security without their support.”


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One of the first responders OnStar chose to assist is Andy Allison, a firefighter at the Lewisville Fire Department in Texas, who suffered career-altering injuries while fighting a structure fire. Since the life-changing incident, Allison has dedicated himself to helping others manage occupational medicine and advocating on the behalf of others who suffer debilitating injuries in the line of duty.

In his role as an advocate, Allison has been speaking around the country on the topics of worst-case scenario preparation and managing life after a debilitating injury.

“My goal is to help other firefighters prepare for if, or when, they get hurt,” said Allison. “In this career, you need to know what can be done proactively to protect yourself and your family, both physically and financially, and I want to help others be equipped to manage whatever comes their way.”

“Thanks to public safety responders across the nation, OnStar is able to provide a life-saving connection that is needed every hour, every day for the past 20 years,” said Cathy Bishop, OnStar Global Emergency Services senior manager. “This donation demonstrates our great appreciation for all first responders, especially those who suffer serious injury and financial hardship in the name of public service.”


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