Turning Wrenches and Second Chances – Anthony’s Story
February 28, 2025Mr. Anthony Clarke never imagined the road his life would take. One wrong turn led to incarceration, and when he was released, the path ahead was filled with uncertainty. Reentering society wasn’t just about finding a job—it was about rebuilding his life, regaining his confidence, and proving to himself and others that he was capable of more.
That journey wasn’t easy. Once open doors now seemed firmly shut. Finding stable employment felt like an impossible challenge, and without a reliable means of transportation, even getting to interviews became a struggle. But when every option seemed exhausted, Mr. Clarke found a beacon of hope: Vehicles for Change’s Full Circle Auto Training program.
At first, he didn’t know what to expect. He had always been good with his hands. Still, this program was more than just learning how to repair cars—it was about restoring confidence, building discipline, and reconnecting with a supportive community.
“The Full Circle Auto Training program helped me get myself together,” Mr. Clarke shares. “You’re not going to find this anywhere else. This program will help you if you apply yourself.”
From day one, he knew he was in a place where people cared—not just about his success in the program, but about him as a person. “Everybody was supportive,” he recalls. “From the instructors to the program coordinators, they made sure everything was done to help us succeed.” For the first time in a long time, Mr. Clarke felt like he had people in his corner. They weren’t just teaching him about auto repair; they were showing him the power of patience, the importance of human connection, and the value of perseverance.
But the journey wasn’t without its challenges. Simple things—like getting to class on time—became obstacles without reliable transportation. The irony wasn’t lost on Mr. Clarke: he was training to fix cars while struggling to get to and from the program himself. Still, he refused to let those challenges define him. He showed up, put in the work, and took every lesson to heart.
It didn’t take long before Mr. Clarke realized the impact of what he was doing. It wasn’t just about turning wrenches—it was about changing lives. “The biggest personal change for me is realizing that I’m making an impact,” he says. “Especially on mothers with children who need reliable cars. That really touches me because I have daughters of my own.”
His dedication and resilience didn’t go unnoticed. After graduating from the Full Circle program, Mr. Clarke accepted an offer for a full-time position with Vehicles for Change. What started as an opportunity to rebuild his life turned into a career where he could lift others.
Mr. Clarke has earned the respect of everyone around him. “If you need support at work, Mr. Clarke is your go-to. If you have a question about auto repair, he’s the expert you turn to. Simply put, Mr. Clarke is the glue that holds Vehicles for Change together, always making sure everything runs smoothly,” says President & CEO Martin Schwartz.
For Mr. Clarke, this is more than a job—it’s a mission. “This organization has a heart for the community. It’s not just about selling or fixing cars; it’s about helping people who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to get a vehicle.” His story proves that a car is more than just a means of transportation. It is independence, a gateway to opportunity, and a key to unlocking a brighter future. It’s the difference between barely getting by and finally moving forward.
This is just one story in a 25-year mission that has changed thousands of lives. At the core of each of those stories is the generosity of a community. By donating a car, truck, or van, or giving a financial donation to Vehicles for Change, you help people like Mr. Clarke rebuild, restart, and thrive. Every donation is more than a gift—it is an opportunity, a fresh start, and a lifeline for someone ready to take their future into their own hands.
Be the reason someone like Mr. Clarke gets a second chance on the road to success. Donate today.
