Ragina Cooper Ali’s Journey of Impact
March 21, 2025Ragina’s Story – Vehicles for Change partner, AAA Mid-Atlantic/AAA Club Alliance: Public Government & Affairs Manager, MD & DC
Ragina Cooper Ali remembers the first time she learned about Vehicles for Change. It was a moment that shaped both her professional path and her personal values. Nearly 20 years ago, early in her career at AAA, she discovered the organization and was immediately drawn to its mission. She quickly realized that Vehicles for Change wasn’t just about providing transportation; it was about offering something far more powerful: mobility and independence.
Inspired by a Vision
The vision of CEO Marty Schwartz left a lasting impression on Ragina. After attending a Full Circle Auto Training graduation ceremony, she was inspired. Seeing Marty’s passion and the determination of the graduates stirred something deep within her. Ragina knew then that she wanted to get involved.
To Ragina, the mission of Vehicles for Change was simple: it was about providing second chances. Having served as a Baltimore Police Officer, Ragina saw firsthand how life could take unexpected turns. Some of the people she served made mistakes, but those mistakes didn’t have to define them forever. They, like everyone else, deserved a second chance to rebuild and thrive.
That Feeling of Gratitude
For Ragina, the joy of working with Vehicles for Change went beyond just the training programs. She has attended numerous student graduations, fundraisers, and events where families received affordable vehicles. One of her most cherished experiences was when she was able to present keys to a family, witnessing their lives change in a moment. The smiles and gratitude were something Ragina would never forget. Each recipient had a story that reflected the essence of Vehicle’s for Change’s mission.
Hearing families describe how a reliable car changed their daily lives meant everything to Ragina. With dependable transportation, they no longer relied on inconsistent bus routes or endured long, exhausting commutes. A car gave them the freedom to spend more time with their children, plan outings, and visit family without worry. They broke free from the limits imposed by a lack of mobility. As Ragina saw it, car ownership wasn’t simply about getting from point A to point B—it represented dignity, pride, and independence.
Ragina’s Continued Commitment to Vehicles for Change
Looking ahead, Ragina sees a clear future for Vehicles for Change. She wants the organization to expand its affordable car ownership and training programs into even more communities. She imagines a world where more people have access to the tools and opportunities they need to succeed—and she remains committed to helping make that vision real. Whether she’s supporting fundraising efforts or advocating for the mission, Ragina works to ensure Vehicles for Change continues empowering individuals for years to come.
When Ragina thinks back to her first car—a funky green 1976 AMC Gremlin her car-enthusiast father gave her—she can’t help but smile. That car marked the beginning of her own journey, much like the ones she helps create for others today.
