Meet the Board – Elizabeth Kemp Caulder

Elizabeth Kemp Caulder – Chief Strategist, Phoenix Lifestyle Marketing Group & Vehicles for Change National Board Member

Elizabeth Kemp Caulder’s journey with Vehicles for Change began in an unexpected way. It was around 2010 when she first met Marty Schwartz at a networking lunch. At the time, she admits she was not familiar with the organization, but Marty’s enthusiasm about the mission caught her attention immediately. Elizabeth was serving as the Chief Marketing Officer for another agency, and Marty, seeing the potential for creative collaboration, scheduled brainstorming sessions where they could discuss how to better market Vehicles for Change. Elizabeth was impressed by his leadership and the vision he had for the organization. Marty’s passion was contagious, and it wasn’t long before Elizabeth found herself deeply involved in the mission. After several discussions, Marty offered her a seat on the National Board, which she gladly accepted.

To Elizabeth, Vehicles for Change’s mission has always resonated deeply. The organization is rooted in the community, providing not just vehicles, but a sense of freedom and independence. For Elizabeth, this mission feels especially personal. Growing up with a single mother, Elizabeth understands the challenges that come with limited resources, especially when it comes to transportation. Her mother, a true hero in Elizabeth’s eyes, often struggled to provide the things she wanted for her children. However, Elizabeth has vivid memories of her mother making the most out of their situation, taking her and her sisters to beautiful parks and museums—places that were not only recreational, but offered glimpses of a different world. “Exposure to experiences that are aspirational is something a lot of people don’t realize is so important,” Elizabeth reflects. “It’s about giving children the opportunity to dream beyond their immediate circumstances.”

Elizabeth’s children, too, have been moved by the stories of families receiving cars. They’ve attended events and have heard firsthand from parents who couldn’t even make it to the grocery store, and how Vehicles for Change’s work helps break down those barriers. These experiences have sparked meaningful conversations in Elizabeth’s household, demonstrating how the organization’s impact goes beyond just providing transportation—it’s about building a foundation for success.

One of the key aspects that Elizabeth believes makes VFC so powerful is its universality. While rural areas face the significant transportation challenges, similarly urban areas have their own unique transportations challenges that impede the ability for individuals and families to fully experience life. Public transportation isn’t always a viable option, and having access to a vehicle can mean the difference between independence and stagnation. The truth is that reliable transportation is something every person deserves, no matter where they live. For Elizabeth, Vehicles for Change’s work represents the essence of freedom—an invaluable commodity that too many people take for granted. “In the absence of freedom, are we really living?” she asks.

As a long-time supporter and national board member, Elizabeth has contributed to the nonprofit’s growth in numerous ways. Supported by her team at The Phoenix Lifestyle Marketing Group, Elizabeth led the brand recalibration as well as the development of the strategic roadmap that aimed to elevate the organization’s national presence. Looking ahead, Elizabeth envisions a future where VFC continues to expand its reach. Elizabeth believes that at its core, Vehicles for Change is about more than just cars, it’s about fostering a sense of community, compassion, and neighborly care.

As for her own journey, Elizabeth recalls her first car with a fond smile. It was a black Chevy Metro hatchback—a car she bought with the money she earned working while attending college in upstate New York. The car had interesting quirks, like the driver’s side door that didn’t open from the outside and “unique venting” in the floorboards!  It wasn’t the fanciest car, but it gave her the freedom she needed to get around and experience life.

As the organization celebrates 25 years of service, Elizabeth is proud to be part of a mission that continues to bring freedom to families in need, one vehicle at a time.