Ottawa Chrysler Jeep Dodge Inc.

Chrysler Canada on Saturday evening donated Canada's first Fiat 500 to the live auction at Toronto's 17th annual Venetian Ball. The ball was held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre with all proceeds benefiting Villa Charities.

"The enthusiastic bidding for this iconic vehicle, and the fact that it sold for $85,000, underscore the excitement and interest the Fiat 500 has generated since Fiat's return to Canada was first announced," said Ed Broadbear, Vice President of Marketing - Chrysler Canada. 

"Chrysler Canada and Fiat are proud to donate Canada's very first Fiat 500 to support Villa Charities," said Reid Bigland, Chrysler Canada President and CEO. "Thanks to the alliance between our two companies, the feeling of kinship with the vibrant Italian-Canadian community has strengthened and we are pleased to be a part of this wonderful event."

The "Numero Uno" is the first in a series of 500 limited edition vehicles which will feature a unique Prima Edizione sequential badge according to production order. The Fiat 500 Prima Edizione will be exclusively available in three colours: Bianco (White), Rosso (Red) and Grigio (Gray). 

The modern generation of the Fiat 500 will be introduced in North America at the end of 2010 and will offer customers uncompromising safety, fuel efficiency from its 1.4-liter MultiAir four-cylinder engine, individualization options, quality and advanced technology.  This vehicle combines the best of European engineering and Italian style. It also is tangible evidence of Fiat's commitment to fuel efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. In fact, Fiat has the lowest average CO₂ emissions of any automaker in Europe.

Chrysler Canada, its employees and dealers have a long history of giving back to the communities where they live and work.   Chrysler Canada's charitable giving supports a variety of organizations across Canada each year.

About Villa Charities
Since its formation in 1971 to provide culturally sensitive care for an elderly Italian-Canadian population, Villa Charities has extended its mandate to include support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and mental illness. Building on its rich Italian-Canadian heritage, and by living life with Italian passion, the Villa Charities family of organizations has grown to include Villa Colombo Services for Seniors, Columbus Centre, VITA Community Living Services, Mens Sana and Villa Colombo Vaughan Di Poce Centre. Recognizing its relevance across generations, Villa Charities is launching new initiatives to promote quality of life, health and wellness, youth engagement, the creation of new knowledge and investment in new technologies. For more information, visit www.villacharities.com.