Everyone’s heard of Harley-Davidson and everyone’s heard of the American Cancer Society (ACS). Now, we’re hearing them in the same sentence thanks to a generous California resident who donated a 2003 Police Officer Special to the American Cancer Society. The coming together is a very unique rescue mission for this police motorcycle whose proceeds will now help in the fight against cancer.
It’s a special donation because Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest, most respected and most coveted motorcycle brands out there. Born in 1903 from the handiwork and imagination of friends – William Harley and Arthur, Walter, and William Davidson – the American company made quick progress of establishing itself. Within just a few years of completing their first motorized bicycle, the friends and partners acquired a working model, inventory, a dealer, a facility, and legal incorporation. From there, Harley-Davidson continued to grow and although it’s had its struggles throughout the decades, it’s shown its strength through persevering and is one of just two motorcycle companies that survived the great depression. In fact, aggressively marketing their motorcycle as “the police motorcycle” is what helped keep Harley-Davidson sales alive during the Great Depression.
Harley-Davidson is the leading brand for American police departments, followed second by BMW. “The first Harley-Davidson police motorcycle was delivered to the Detroit Police Department in 1908. Right from the start, police departments recognized the tactical advantage provided by a maneuverable vehicle such as a motorcycle along with Harley-Davidson’s reputation for reliability.”1
Ten years after Harley-Davidson began making their mark, the American Cancer Society was established. Two very different industries, but they have more in common than one would think; they share a high standard of quality, best-in-class performance, and unwavering endurance to deliver value. It’s a privilege to receive this donation that brings two market leaders together in effort to protect us from cancer.
If you would like to donate your vehicle to help the American Cancer Society fight cancer, visit CARS FOR A CURE®.
About the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service.