Community Affairs

GATX's philanthropic efforts began in 1926 when a joint venture of the company, known as General American-Pfaudler, delivered 50,000 gallons of donated pasteurized milk in its tank cars within three days to victims of a massive hurricane in Miami. Over the years, GATX has continued this tradition of serving as a committed corporate citizen in the communities where our employees live, work and volunteer.

Community Investment

Local community investment programs support organizations and projects that improve the quality of life in GATX communities across the United States. Each year, GATX contributes to nonprofit organizations committed to the issues surrounding culture, education, the environment, families, healthcare and social services. GATX has active community investment committees in Buffalo, Chicago, and San Francisco, which serve their respective regions as well as several other locations. Please select a city from the menu on the left to learn about giving opportunities in that location. General inquires can be directed to the corporate headquarters in Chicago.

Employee Giving

GATX also recognizes the value of the generosity of our employees and promotes their philanthropic activity through Matching and Volunteer Gift programs. In 2003, 143 nonprofit organizations received over $75,000 in matching funds from GATX to complement monetary gifts and volunteer hours donated by employees nationwide.

Community Involvement

Because a donation of time can be as valuable as money, GATX organizes and encourages employees to volunteer in their local communities. Employee volunteer efforts are wide-ranging and they include tutoring and mentoring programs, playground builds, renovation projects and work days at soup kitchens, food banks, and shelters. In addition, employees regularly participate in donation drives to collect goods such as food, clothing and toys.