Chevrolet Camaro auction raises $400,000 for the Southeast Michigan American Heart Association -- DETROIT, Feb. 22, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Proceeds benefit cardiovascular research, community programs and education DETROIT, Feb. 22, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- According to the American Heart Association, 82.6 million heart disease and stroke survivors are living proof that donations make a difference. To help the Association continue to make a difference, Chevrolet donated a one-of-a-kind Camaro that raised $400,000 at the Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, AZ. All proceeds from the auction benefit cardiovascular research through the southeast Michigan American Heart Association. Since 1949, contributions to the American Heart Association have produced significant findings and discoveries, which opened doors for thriving, lifesaving campaigns such as Go Red For Women Luncheons, Heart Walks, Heart Balls and Jump/Hoops For Heart. "Funding our mission equates to more lives saved or vastly improved...it is both that simple and profound," said Kathy Kauffmann , executive director and vice president for the southeast Michigan American Heart Association. "Thanks to generous supporters like Chevrolet, the American Heart Association continues to bring life-saving research and resources to communities across Michigan," said Kauffmann. The Association is recognized as a worldwide leader in cardiovascular research. In 2012, $9.3 million was invested in research in Michigan. Since the organization's inception, $3.4 billion has been invested nationwide. As a result, research advances such as the artificial heart valve, CPR, and lifesaving drugs have been created to save lives. "The heart is the engine of the body," said Jim Campbell , vice president, Chevrolet Performance. Just like a car, if the engine isn't running in top condition, it affects the entire body. We are happy to be able to help the Association accelerate advances cardiovascular research with a very special Camaro. The factory drag-race car is the only COPO convertible offered for sale in 2012, and the only one painted Inferno Orange Metallic. A total of only 69 COPO Camaros were built in 2012. The name of the buyer has yet to be released. About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is the nation's oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Our mission is to build healthier lives by preventing, treating and defeating these diseases - America's No. 1 and No. 3 killers. We fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health. To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit americanheart.org About Chevrolet Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com. SOURCE Southeast Michigan American Heart Association RELATED LINKS http://www.americanheart.org