Crime & Safety

Mission Viejo Kids to See Cars from the Future

Students identified as at-risk for gangs will get a close look at how Ford cars are designed and sold Friday morning.

Viejo Elementary students will get an up-close look at how Ford designs and sells its cars Friday morning.

It's a reward to 100 students for positive behavior, perfect attendance and staying out of gangs.

Kids were chosen between Sept. and Dec. by Ford and the regional gang-prevention program GRIP, comprised of local law enforcement agencies.

Find out what's happening in Mission Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Students will see three concept cars: the Ford Shelby GR1, the Lincoln MKR and the Ford START.

The students will be greeted by Henry Ford's great-great grandson Henry Ford III, and Mad Mike, star of SPEED TV’s "Pimp My Ride."

Find out what's happening in Mission Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

To qualify, the students had to have no unexcused absences, criminal activity or arrests, violence or weapons on campus, and no gang-related clothing, writing, or behavior.

Ford and OC GRIP identified 110 at-risk students, ages 9 to 13 in grades 4 through 8. Of the 110 students, 100 students met the challenge and were mentored by Ford employees, including guidance and encouragement for positive decision making. 

Here are the other participating schools:

  • Gilbert Elementary
  • Whitaker Elementary
  • Adams Elementary
  • Davis Elementary
  • San Juan Elementary
  • Robert M. Pyles Elementary
  • Yorba Middle School
  • Santiago Middle School
  • Bernice Ayer Middle School
  • Shorecliff Middle School


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