A Donor’s Impact – Kate’s Story

In May 2023, Kate donated her 2010 Toyota Prius to Vehicles for Change. With plenty of miles under its belt, Kate fondly remembers, “She was a reliable companion, and I still think about her from time to time.”

Kate, who actively serves in the Navy, was listening to her local NPR station when she heard about Vehicles for Change. She immediately thought it was an incredible program, a true win-win. It struck a chord with her—helping people who deserve a second chance, providing automotive training to those who need it, and offering cars to those who truly could benefit from them.

When the time came for Kate to upgrade to a new Prius, she knew exactly what to do with her old one. Without hesitation, she chose to donate it to Vehicles for Change.

The donation process was incredibly easy for Kate—she simply filled out an online form, and someone contacted her right away. The Toyota dealership where she bought her new Prius even agreed to let her donated car stay on their lot until it was picked up.

“More people need to know about Vehicles for Change,” Kate said. “When someone asks what happened to my old car, I’m quick to tell them that I donated it to Vehicles for Change.”

What Kate remembers most about the donation experience, however, is her son’s reaction. He was just 7 years old when she donated her car. He asked her if she’d remembered to take all his books and toys out before donating it, and she reassured him she had. What warmed her heart even more was how, whenever someone asked about her new car, her son would eagerly chime in, proudly announcing that she had donated it. “Seeing him so excited and proud of my act of giving was truly special,” said Kate.

Donors like Kate unlock a world of opportunities for families in need. These selfless acts of giving have a lasting impact, not just on individuals, but on entire communities. By donating your unwanted or unused vehicle, you’re making a meaningful difference in so countless ways.