DETROIT -

Used- and new-vehicle sales are rising, and the latest survey data from the National Automobile Dealers Association and Ally Financial showed dealers continue to increase their level of giving to charitable causes.

In fact, more than 70 percent of franchised dealers surveyed in September said they increased their charitable giving so far in 2014, up from 65 percent last year.

Survey orchestrators noted that about 43 percent of dealers said they expect to increase their contributions again in 2015, up from 39 percent in 2013.

NADA and Ally Financial mentioned the bulk of this giving is staying in dealer's local communities, as nearly 90 percent of dealers said their contributions go to supporting community service and local organizations. More than 65 percent of dealers surveyed said they organize staff volunteerism opportunities in their community.

“Franchised new-car dealers are among the largest supporters of community-based programs and charitable organizations in most towns across the country,” NADA president Peter Welch said.

“New-car dealers support their local communities in many ways — from creating well-paying jobs, generating significant revenue in taxes to providing other economic benefits,” Welch continued. “It’s difficult to keep track of the level of charitable involvement because so many dealers do not seek publicity or recognition.”

The survey results were part of NADA and Ally's annual Dealer Charitable Survey for 2014. Survey results also showed:

— Nearly 50 percent of dealers gave more than $25,000 to nonprofit organizations and charitable causes in 2013, with 13 percent giving in excess of $100,000.

— Dealers surveyed donated or lent out approximately $4.5 million worth of vehicles for charitable causes.

— More than 97 percent of dealers surveyed said that engaging in community outreach or giving back efforts enhances a dealership's reputation. Nearly 90 percent agreed or strongly agreed that supporting nonprofit organizations has helped to promote and drive awareness of their business within their local community.

Welch added that aside from the countless donations from individual dealers in cities across the U.S., thousands of NADA members are involved with the National Automobile Dealers Charitable Foundation, which supports numerous causes and organizations.

NADA and Ally Financial conducted a random sample survey during September and received about 310 responses from U.S. dealer principals. Survey questions focused on dealer levels of involvement in charitable giving and volunteerism in communities. References to 'dealers surveyed' refers to a percentage of the 310 responding dealers.

“Dealers see the value of giving back in a variety of ways — from their businesses, to their communities and beyond," said Tim Russi, president of auto finance for Ally.

“Auto dealers are leaders in their communities, and their giving often inspires others to make a difference as well, which pays dividends for all,” Russi went on to say.