"Ford is committed to building relationships in the communities where it does business, and contributing to the Muhammad Ali Center will allow us to continue our support in Louisville -- as well as support people around the world," says Sandy Ulsh, vice president and executive director of the Ford Motor Company Fund.

The Muhammad Ali Center, a new not-for-profit organization, is scheduled to open in 2003 and will be located along the riverfront. The center will offer educational programming focusing on conflict resolution, diversity and multicultural training, and personal inspiration. These programs will be available on-site and via the Internet through distance learning technology.

The Muhammad Ali Institute for Peacemaking and Conflict Resolution -- apartnership with the University of Louisville -- will also be part of he Center.

"People everywhere are really the same. They need encouragement to achieve their dreams and the opportunity to celebrate their diversity rather than dwell on their differences," Ali says. "With the support of the Ford Motor Co. and the Ford Motor Co. Fund, the Ali Center will beable to create facilities and programs that will promote respect, hope and understanding among people throughout the world."