A Partner in Change – Perry’s Story
February 28, 2025
A Partnership Built Over Time
For Perry Kurz, an Allstate Insurance agent and longtime Vehicles for Change partner, the journey with the organization began more than eight years ago. At first, the connection developed gradually. “We would work on and off,” Perry recalled. However, everything shifted about four years ago after a conversation with a Vehicles for Change team member.
With a background in insurance, Perry immediately recognized a need. Car award recipients often faced confusion around insurance coverage, and Perry knew he could help. Because he understood how life-changing a vehicle could be, he wanted to ensure recipients could fully experience that freedom without unnecessary stress.
A Mission That Hits Home
For Perry, the mission of Vehicles for Change feels deeply personal. “This is an amazing organization,” he said. “It helps people take the next step in their lives.” In fact, Perry often reflects on his own childhood and wishes a program like this had existed when he was younger.
Growing up with divorced parents, reliable transportation wasn’t always available. “It made traveling anywhere extremely difficult,” he explained. Because of those experiences, Perry feels a strong connection to the families VFC serves and understands how much access to a vehicle can change a person’s life.
Supporting Recipients Beyond the Keys
For Perry, the most rewarding part of his partnership is seeing the genuine joy and gratitude from car recipients. “I give my cell phone number to every client who’s awarded a car,” he shared. For many, this is their very first vehicle. Along with excitement comes questions, concerns, and uncertainty.
“There’s always stress,” Perry said, “but happiness is the one emotion that outshines them all.” By guiding recipients through the insurance process, Perry helps ensure they feel supported during this major life transition.
Creating Lasting Community Impact
Through his work, Perry sees firsthand how transportation changes lives. Without a vehicle, families face serious barriers in emergencies and employment. By contrast, access to reliable transportation opens doors to stability and opportunity.
Perry takes pride in knowing his role creates a lasting ripple effect throughout the community.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
As Perry reflects on his involvement, he hopes to see Vehicles for Change continue to grow. “I want to see them keep helping people with transportation and job skills,” he said. Looking ahead, he feels excited to remain part of a mission that continues to change lives year after year.
First Car, First Freedom
When asked about his first car, Perry laughed. It was a mustard-yellow 1970s Datsun B-210 hatchback with a four-speed manual transmission. Despite its flaws, Perry felt “super happy” to have it. More than anything, it gave him independence—just like the cars Vehicles for Change provides today.
Gratitude for Partners Who Care
Vehicles for Change is grateful for partners like Perry Kurz. His story reflects dedication, compassion, and a deep belief in the power of opportunity. As the organization celebrates 25 years of changing lives, partnerships like his help ensure that impact continues for many years to come.
