Buffett to Auction “THRIFTY” Car

Warren Buffett’s philanthropic efforts recently made headlines when he pledged to donate the bulk of his fortune, nearly 32 billion dollars, to five foundations.
In addition to this generous gift, Mr. Buffett is divesting himself of his 2001 Lincoln Town Car to benefit Girls Incorporated (Girls Inc.), the premier youth-service organization that reaches millions of girls, ages 6 to 18, throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Mr. Buffett’s personal automobile, including his personalized “THRIFTY” license plate, will be offered at auction on eBay, Sept. 12 – 22, 2006.
Girls Inc. will use funds generated from the sale to support and enhance its array of educational programs across several disciplines, including science, math and technology, sports, economic and media literacy, safety, and community action.
Often referred to as “The Sage of Omaha,” thanks to his savvy investing and no-nonsense business philosophy, Mr. Buffett has long relied on his signature money-management style when it comes to building social capital.
“Girls Inc. gives young women the chance to achieve their potential by teaching them to invest in their most important asset — their life,” says Mr. Buffett.
“Money might determine who gets what opportunities, but as the years go by, you measure your personal bank account by who loves you, how they love you, and whether the world is a better place because you were born.”
Mr. Buffett’s four-door, 2001 Lincoln Town Car Signature Series registers fewer than 14,000 miles and features a light parchment gold exterior, light beige interior, and leather seats.
In addition to receiving the car’s highly collectible “THRIFTY” license plate, the winning bidder also will be given an etched brass plaque bearing Mr. Buffett’s signature, which can be placed in the car’s interior.
“Everyone respects Warren Buffett’s business acumen and his goodwill toward those in need deserve the same accolades,” said Joyce Roche, president and CEO of Girls Inc.
“At Girls Inc., we provide girls with tools and skills to improve their lives, and this wonderful, collectible car allows people to share in the Buffett magic, follow in his generous footsteps, and invest in the next generation of leaders.”