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Nov 01, 2023
When Should You Donate Your Car?

For many nonprofit organizations dedicated to transforming the lives of underprivileged children, generosity from the community is often the lifeblood of their operations. Without the support of donations, these organizations would struggle to provide necessary services and aid to those in need.

While donating money is appreciated, there are other ways to give that can make a significant impact as well. Donating your car may not be the first item that comes to mind when considering charitable giving, but it can be a valuable contribution to a worthy cause.

Here are a few signs that could help you decide if this path aligns with where you stand today.

Your Car Is Costing You More Than It's Worth

When the cost of maintaining your vehicle exceeds its actual worth, donating it to a charitable organization may be a sensible alternative. Frequent, expensive repairs, skyrocketing insurance, and hefty gas bills can quickly add up, making it financially unfeasible to continue operating the car.

The constant financial drain could be better utilized elsewhere, especially if the vehicle becomes increasingly unreliable. Donating your car in this situation eliminates these financial burdens and provides a valuable asset to an organization that can transform it into substantial support for those in need.

There's also a considerable tax advantage to consider. When you donate a car to a registered nonprofit, the IRS allows you to claim a tax deduction based on the car's fair market value. This can significantly reduce your taxable income, further enhancing the financial benefits of donating rather than continuing to pour money into a depreciating asset.

In addition to the monetary gains, the knowledge that your car has been repurposed to aid those less fortunate can provide a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment, affirming that a car donation is a win-win situation.

You're No Longer Using the Car

If your vehicle is simply gathering dust in your garage or driveway, donating it to a charity can be a wise decision. An idle car deteriorates over time, reducing its value and becoming more of a liability than an asset.

Rather than allow it to depreciate further, donating the car to a nonprofit organization can enable it to serve a larger purpose. The car can be sold at a charity auction, and the funds raised can go directly towards supporting the organization's cause.

Some nonprofits may also use the car for their operations, such as delivering meals, transporting supplies, or providing rides for underprivileged people. In either case, your car donation can significantly impact the nonprofit's mission and potentially change young lives.

In addition, an idle car can become a practical pain point. Over time, it may require maintenance and repair to keep it in a usable state, which is an unnecessary expenditure if you are not using the car. Donating it alleviates these concerns and also clears up space in your garage.

It's also worth noting that donating a car doesn't just benefit the charity. It's beneficial to the environment. Rather than slowly deteriorating in your garage, the vehicle can be put to better use, reducing the need for new cars––and by extension––the resources required to manufacture them.

Donating your car is just one example of how small actions can have significant impacts on those in need and the community as a whole. So next time you think about donating to a nonprofit organization, Cars For Kids may be the perfect destination for your old vehicle. Contact us today to learn more about our organization and how you can be a part of our mission to help underprivileged kids build a better future.

Oct 10, 2023
Car Donations for Kids: What To Know

Some children's charities accept cars as donations. The charities sell the donated cars and use the money to support at-risk kids.

How the Donations Benefit the Kids

Charities that accept car donations for kids use the proceeds for different benefits. Below are some of the tangible ways your donation may benefit kids.

Providing Basic Needs

Many places have at-risk kids who do not have places to stay, food, or even clothes to wear. Your donation can pay for some of these basic needs and uplift a child's well-being. The donations may even help pay for childcare for the young ones who need it.

Providing Healthcare

Everyone can get sick, but not everyone can afford the relevant treatment whenever they fall ill. Proceeds from your donated car can help pay for preventive and treatment medical costs for kids who need it. For example, the money can buy medical drugs, pay for surgeries, and settle doctor's consultation fees.

Providing Educational Needs

Many agree that education is one of the best gifts a parent can give a child. Unfortunately, many kids don't have parents who can give them the necessary education. Again, car donations can help pay for educational needs, like extra tuition, textbooks, and school lunches.

How the Donations Benefit You

One of the best things about donations is that they benefit both the beneficiaries and the givers. Below are ways you can benefit from donating your cars to kids.

Freeing Up Space

Cars sitting in your driveway occupy space you can put to better use. For example, you can use the space to plant a flower garden, set up an outdoor lounge, or a barbecue area. The bigger your car is, the more you can do with the space it occupies. Donate the car and free up the space.

Improving Curb Appeal

An old car sitting in your driveway interferes with your curb appeal. Even if your neighbors haven't complained, they probably don't like how your home looks with an ever-present car in the front yard. Decreased curb appeal is especially problematic with cars that don't run and sit in the same place daily.

Improving Safety and Security

Unused automobiles in the driveway are safety and security risks in different ways. For example, these vehicles are attractive nuisances that can attract neighborhood kids. Kids who get hurt on your property can receive compensation. In addition, automobiles make good hiding places for burglars. Donating the cars will instantly improve your home's safety and security.

Relieving You From Car Repair, Sale, or Disposal Stress

People deal with broken-down cars or cars they are not using in different ways. Some sell the cars; others repair the cars and continue using them, while others treat them as garbage. However, none of these options is as straightforward and as convenient as donating the cars.

For example, you might spend thousands of dollars to fix a car without success. Disposing of cars as garbage is a disservice to the environment. Donating the car is easy and benefits others.

Giving You Tax Deductions

The Internal Revenue Service allows tax deductions for car donations. You may base the deduction on the car's sale or fair market price, depending on how the charity treats it. Many charities do their best to maximize these deductions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Charities to Support

Do due diligence before donating your car to a charity. Below are a few things to consider.

Choose a Qualified Charity

Ideally, you should donate your car to a qualified charity that the government recognizes as such. Qualified charities exclusively deal with a few specific needs. Charities that directly benefit children belong in this category. Dealing with a qualified charity guarantees your donations to your chosen cause.

Consider the Ease of Donating

Choose a charity that won't give you grief with the donation. The donation process should be straightforward. For example, some charities will pick up your car at no additional cost.

Cars For Kids is a certified charity; we have operated for over three decades. We operate in all 50 states to help at-risk kids. Contact us to donate your car and help build a better future for kids.

Oct 07, 2023
Cars for Kids Charity: Driving Change for Texas Youth through Transformative Partnerships - Spectrum News 1

Cars for Kids Charity, known for its commitment to empowering children through education and support, has found strong allies in the YMCA and Texans Can Academies. These partnerships reflect a shared dedication to helping young minds thrive.

The YMCA, a renowned organization with a long history of fostering youth development, and Texans Can Academies, a network of high schools that provide education opportunities for at-risk youth, have joined forces with Cars for Kids Charity to amplify their collective impact.

Colin Weatherwax on Spectrum News 1: Sharing the Vision

To shed light on this powerful partnership and its far-reaching impact, Cars for Kids Charity's CEO, Colin Weatherwax, joined Charles Divins on Spectrum News 1. During this exclusive interview, Mr. Weatherwax shared insights into how this collaboration is positively shaping the lives of children across Texas.

This interview is a unique opportunity to learn more about the concrete steps being taken to drive change in the community. It highlights the tangible ways in which Cars for Kids Charity, the YMCA, and Texans Can Academies are supporting education, mentorship, and vital resources for young individuals.


Creating Opportunities for a Brighter Future

The combined efforts of Cars for Kids Charity, the YMCA, and Texans Can Academies are creating opportunities for children to thrive in various ways:

  • Access to Quality Education: Through these partnerships, underserved youth gain access to quality education, setting them on the path to success.
  • Mentorship and Support: Young individuals are provided with mentorship and support systems that help them navigate challenges and make informed choices.
  • Empowerment: These collaborations empower children to overcome obstacles, build confidence, and pursue their dreams.

How You Can Get Involved

If you're inspired by the work of Cars for Kids Charity, the YMCA, and Texans Can Academies, you too can make a difference. There are several ways to get involved:

  • Donate Your Vehicle: Consider donating your unwanted vehicle to Cars for Kids Charity. Your contribution will support vital programs that empower children.
  • Spread the Word: Share the news of these transformative partnerships on social media and in your community. Together, we can raise awareness and expand our reach.

Tune In to Spectrum News 1

To gain deeper insights into the incredible work being done by Cars for Kids Charity, the YMCA, and Texans Can Academies, don't miss the exclusive interview with CEO Colin Weatherwax on Spectrum News 1. Learn how we are driving change and creating brighter futures for children in Texas.

About Cars for Kids Charity:

Cars for Kids Charity is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children and helping build a better future. By partnering with organizations like the YMCA and Texans Can Academies, we create opportunities for children to thrive, breaking down barriers and fostering brighter futures.


Sep 25, 2023
iHeartMedia and Ben & Skin Show from 97.1FM The Freak Partner with Cars for Kids Charity to Drive Change for Youth

Cars for Kids Charity is proud to announce a remarkable partnership with iHeartMedia and the Ben & Skin Show from 97.1FM The Freak. This collaboration has resulted in a heartwarming vehicle donation that will play a pivotal role in empowering children in Dallas to build brighter futures.

iHeartMedia: A Generous Gesture that Drives Change

iHeartMedia, a global leader in the world of media and entertainment, has a longstanding commitment to supporting the communities it serves. Their recent donation of a vehicle to Cars for Kids Charity exemplifies this commitment, demonstrating the positive impact that corporations can make when they choose to give back.

The donated vehicle represents more than just a mode of giving; it signifies hope, opportunity, and a chance for a better future for children in need. It showcases iHeartMedia's dedication to creating a meaningful difference in the lives of those they reach.

The Ben & Skin Show: Champions of Giving

The Ben & Skin Show, a popular radio program on 97.1FM The Freak, has been an integral part of this partnership. The show's hosts, Ben Rogers and Jeff "Skin" Wade, have been champions of giving back to their community. Their involvement in this vehicle donation highlights their passion for making a positive impact.


A Vehicle for a Brighter Future

This vehicle donation represents much more than a set of wheels. It symbolizes the opportunity for children in Dallas to access education, resources, and support that can change the trajectory of their lives. Cars for Kids Charity is dedicated to using the proceeds from vehicle donations to provide essential programs that empower young individuals to thrive.

Through educational initiatives, mentorship programs, and support for underserved communities, Cars for Kids Charity is committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring that every child has the chance to succeed. The vehicle donated by iHeartMedia and facilitated by the Ben & Skin Show will contribute significantly to these endeavors.

Donating a Vehicle: Easy and Impactful

For those inspired by this heartwarming partnership and eager to make a difference, donating a vehicle to Cars for Kids Charity is easier than ever. The process is straightforward and can be completed in just a few simple steps:

  1. Contact Us: Reach out to Cars for Kids Charity via phone or our website to express your interest in donating a vehicle.
  2. Vehicle Evaluation: We'll guide you through the process of assessing your vehicle's condition and eligibility for donation.
  3. Paperwork Made Simple: Our team will assist you in completing the necessary paperwork, including the transfer of the vehicle's title.
  4. Pickup Service: We offer free pickup services to make the donation process convenient for you.
  5. Tax Benefits: You'll receive a tax-deductible receipt for your generous contribution, which can lead to substantial tax benefits.

Join the Drive for Change

Cars for Kids Charity, iHeartMedia, and the Ben & Skin Show invite you to join our collective effort to drive change and create brighter futures for children in Dallas. Your vehicle donation can make a profound difference in the lives of those who need it most.

For more information on how you can get involved and donate your vehicle, please visit www.carsforkids.org/social or contact us at 972-274-5437. Together, we can be the driving force behind positive change in our community.

Sep 08, 2023
Cars for Kids Car Donation Program Charity Named GreatNonprofits.org Top Rated Charity of 2023

Cars for Kids Charity is delighted to announce that it has been honored with the prestigious GreatNonprofits.org Top Rated Charity of 2023 award. This recognition underscores the organization's unwavering commitment to empowering children in need and creating a brighter future for young lives across the nation.

GreatNonprofits.org, a leading platform for nonprofit reviews and ratings, bestows the Top Rated Charity award upon organizations that have consistently demonstrated excellence in their mission and garnered strong support from their community. This recognition is a testament to the significant positive impact that Cars for Kids Car Donation Program has made in the lives of children and communities it serves.

Cars for Kids has earned this accolade through a combination of factors:

  • Positive Reviews: The organization has received an abundance of heartfelt and positive reviews from individuals and organizations that have experienced firsthand the transformative power of its programs.
  • Community Engagement: Cars for Kids Charity's commitment to fostering community engagement, transparency, and ethical practices has garnered the trust and support of its stakeholders.
  • Empowering Children: Above all, this award reflects the organization's core mission of empowering children and providing them with opportunities to succeed.

Colin Weatherwax, CEO of Cars for Kids Charity, expressed gratitude for this recognition, saying, "We are deeply honored to receive the GreatNonprofits.org Top Rated Charity award. This recognition reaffirms our dedication to making a lasting and positive impact in the lives of children across the nation. It also serves as a reminder of the responsibility we have to continue our mission with unwavering determination."

The entire Cars for Kids team is grateful for the support of its dedicated staff, generous donors, and the incredible children who inspire their work every day.

As the organization celebrates this remarkable achievement, it remains committed to setting even higher standards and reaching new heights in its mission to empower children and build a brighter future for all.

For more information about Cars for Kids Charity and its mission, please visit carsforkids.org.

Aug 08, 2023
Cars for Kids Partners with YMCA to Help Kids Through "Safety Around Water" Program

Cars for Kids, has partnered with the YMCA to help kids through their program "Safety Around Water". The program is designed to help kids aged 3-5 years old learn how to be safe around water.

"We are so excited to be partnering with the YMCA on this important program," said Cars for Kids CMO, Raul E. Machuca Jr. "Water safety is a critical life skill and we are committed to helping kids learn how to be safe around water."

The "Safety Around Water" program will teach kids essential water safety skills like how to stay afloat, how to get help if they're in trouble, and how to prevent accidents in and around water. The program will be offered at select YMCA locations across the country.

"The YMCA is committed to helping all kids learn essential life skills, and water safety is one of the most important skills a child can have," said YMCA Executive Director, Giselle Patterson. "We are proud to partner with Cars for Kids to offer this life-saving program to our communities."

For more information about the "Safety Around Water" program, or to find a participating YMCA location, please visit www.carsforkids.org/safety.


May 03, 2023
The Original Cars for Kids, a 501(c)3 Nonprofit Charitable Organization, Focuses on Helping Kids in Need

The Original Cars for Kids based out of Dallas, TX, is the premier choice for donating your vehicle to a charitable cause. With a focus on providing high quality service and an efficient donation process, Cars for Kids stands out from the competition by running a fully ethical and transparent charity model which allows donors and supporters to ensure 100% of the NET proceeds go directly to benefiting kids.

Cars for Kids renders a streamlined donation process that is easy to use and efficient. The donation website is designed to be user-friendly and provides clear instructions for donating a vehicle of any kind. The process is quick and simple, and the organization is committed to providing the highest level of customer service.

Cars for Kids also offers services that make donating an unused or unwanted vehicle even easier. The organization provides free towing services for donated vehicles, as well as a $50 VISA gift card as a “Thank You” gift. The organization also offers the maximum tax deductions for donated vehicles, making it an even more attractive option for those looking to donate their vehicle.


Read More: Associated Press

Feb 27, 2023
Cars For Kids – Helping Kids by Valuing the Cars for Donation

Many individuals are deeply saddened when considering poverty in the developing world, but they perceive that there is nothing they can do to mitigate the situation. The scope of poverty is enormous, yet we cannot address it due to several macroeconomic and social factors affecting people. Although we cannot alleviate poverty completely, we can play a role in helping people escape the vicious cycle by offering numerous opportunities, including financial aid and academic opportunities. Giving donations to educational projects benefit children from kindergarten to high school and beyond by providing them with materials and other resources necessary for a good education. Although linguistically and culturally diverse families in America contribute to the country, their children may not always have access to excellent educational options.

Donating is an act of selfless act by those who know the importance of helping humanity. One of the most important benefits of donating money to charity is feeling good about it. Giving back to people in need increases a sense of personal pleasure and progress. Instead of spending money on a present that will be looked at once and discarded, people must donate it to a charity. This gives them a sense of self-worth because they contribute to a worthwhile cause for needy people. As a bonus, people will feel good about helping others.

There are hundreds of non-profit organizations to which people may donate, but not all of them are reliable. One of the reliable organizations is "Cars for Kids," which works for promoting children’s educational opportunities. This American 501 © non-profit organization works to provide opportunities for education to help youth at risk. The company was founded by Grant East and utilized the model of taking donated cars and selling them at auctions to fund schools and educational programs. America Can! Cars for Kids was one of the earliest automobile donation initiatives that attempted to provide at-risk children a second shot in life. Through education, they give children in Dallas-Fort Worth a chance to achieve a brighter future. The team in the organization is determined to make every dollar that is provided to the students in need count for the children’s future. In 2022, Cars for Kids was honored with one of the first Top-Rated Awards of 2022 from Great Non-profits.

For 25 years, the Dallas-based charity recognized for its iconic motto, Write Off the Car, Not the Kid® has sponsored tools that children need to achieve their goals. By taking donated automobiles and auctioning them off, the revenues go to schools and organizations in North Texas that help youngsters who need a second chance. Cars for Kids welcomes all types of donations, including cars and trucks, boats, ATVs, jet skis, and monetary contributions. They also accept boats; however, titles for the boat, outboard motor, and trailer are required. The non-profit group provides free towing and, in some cases, same-day pickup.

Donating automobiles to charity can benefit people and the organization they donate to. A charitable organization may keep the donor's car for use, gift it to someone in need, or sell it for cash. An essential step in deducting the value of automobile contributions is to ensure that the charity people donate to is IRS tax-exempt. Only donations to these sorts of organizations are eligible for the deduction. Religious organizations, charities, and organizations that promote education, literacy, and scientific or humanitarian objectives are some examples.

Cars for Kids is a charity and non-profit organization that is IRS-approved. People donate the car online, and within minutes, a representative from Cars for Kids calls to complete the transaction. It just takes a few minutes to gather all of the information on the cars and make arrangements for the title and automobile to be handed in. Within a few weeks, people will be alerted that the automobile has been auctioned off for far more than the dealership had provided as a trade-in value and the proceeds go to brightening a child’s future.

The courageous leaders of Cars for Kids served their country for years, leading the country's future down the "correct road." It was done by offering them training, employment, and a good dose of compassion and encouragement. The foundation is a non-profit organization devoted to bringing comfort, enjoyment, and financial assistance to deserving children via activities centered on a common enthusiasm for the automobile industry! The non-profit organization Cars for Kids works on the motive "finance educational, developmental, and recreational initiatives for low-income adolescents." Giving is a blessing that always comes full circle. Giving is receiving, and generosity spreads. So, the next time you consider pampering yourself, consider the excellent advantages of contributing to charity and the great change you can bring about throughout the world. 

Jan 30, 2023
How to Donate Your Vehicle?

Donating a car to charity is a noble and generous gesture. Proceeds from your car donation provides numerous benefits for those in need. From educational support to meals and medical care, donating your old car, truck, or vehicle makes a real difference in the lives of kids who are in need of a second chance.

If you want to make a car donation to a great cause, please consider Cars for Kids. Donating a car or truck may seem simple, but the process can be tricky at times. That’s why our car donation charity has a staff dedicated to making your experience smooth and seamless. Our organization has over three decades of vehicle donation experience. Our staff will walk you through the process step by step.

 When you are ready to donate your car or vehicle to Cars for Kids, here are some helpful tips for a more efficient process:

 Step to Donate a Car to Charity:

  1. Research charities: Look for charities that accept car donations and make sure they are reputable and have tax-exempt status.
  2. Gather documentation: Collect the title of the car and any other relevant documentation, such as the registration and insurance papers.
  3. Schedule the donation: Contact the charity and schedule a time for them to pick up the car. Many charities will arrange for a tow truck to come and pick up the vehicle.
  4. Prepare the car: Before the car is picked up, make sure it is clean and remove all personal items from the vehicle.
  5. Sign over the title: On the day of pickup, sign over the title to the charity and make sure to get a receipt for the donation.
  6. Get the tax receipt: After the donation, the charity should provide you with a tax receipt for the donation, which you can use to claim a tax deduction.

Note that the donation process may vary depending on the charity, and you should check with the specific charity you want to donate your car to for their own donation process and documentations they may required

Select a Reputable Car Donation Charity

Established in 1992, Cars for Kids is dedicated to its mission of dropout prevention and helping at-kid youth graduate high school. Our car donation charity is “Top-Rated” by Great Nonprofits. As the original “Cars for Kids”, we accept car or vehicle donations from anywhere in the United States in any condition, running or not.  All net proceeds from donations are dedicated to helping teenagers facing adverse situations rise above their challenges and earn their high school diploma.

Make Sure Your Car Donation is Tax Deductible

Cars For Kids is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit charitable organization. When you donate your car or vehicle to Cars for Kids, you will receive the maximum tax deduction allowed by the IRS.

Why Donate Your Car?

Donating a car to charity can have a number of benefits. One of the main reasons people choose to donate their car is to support a cause they believe in, such as a nonprofit organization that helps children complete their education, such as Cars for Kids. Additionally, donating a car can provide a tax deduction for the donor, as long as the car is given to a qualified charitable organization and the donor itemizes their taxes. Additionally, it can save the time, money, and hassle of trying to sell a used car. Finally, car donation program typically will take care of the paperwork and arrange for the vehicle to be picked up or towed away, making it a convenient option for those who no longer need or want their vehicle.

Cars For Kids accepts any make or model regardless of condition, running or not. In addition to cars, the charity also accepts all sorts of vehicles such as trucks, boats, vans, SUVs, RVs, ATVs motorcycles, jet skis, trailers, and other motorized vehicles. They offer free towing services from any location in the country. The funds raised go to helping kids get a quality high school education and diploma. These funds also provide essentials such as food, clothing, childcare, and medical care such as eye examinations that many of take for granted.

Why Donate a Vehicle to Cars for Kids?

As a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, Cars for Kids is building a better future by providing youth the resources they need to graduate. We are “Top-Rated” by Great Nonprofits, and you will receive the maximum tax deduction for your donated car or vehicle. Here are some reasons to consider Cars for Kids:

  • Provide Kids at Risk a High School Education
  • $50 Gift Card
  • Maximum IRS Tax Deduction
  • Top-Rated by Great Nonprofits
  • Free Towing with Flexible Scheduling
  • Free Up Garage Space
  • Avoid Repair Costs and Inconvenience of Selling
  • Bring Hope to Kids Needing a Second Chance

How to Donate a Vehicle to Cars for Kids?

Cars for Kids makes it easy to donate your car of vehicle. Simply call or visit their website at www.CarsforKids.org and provide your information. Their staff will assist you with all the paperwork and arrange a time for your vehicle to be picked up.  

You will be provided a temporary receipt at the time of your pickup. Once your vehicle sells at auction, you will then receive a 1098 C tax form that can be used for your federal tax deduction.

Even if you don’t currently have a vehicle to donate, you can always make a cash donation to Cars for Kids and help their great cause., you support their cause. Cash donations can be made on a one time or monthly a recurring monthly. All net proceeds support kids and families in need. Whether you choose to make a cash or car donation, you can rest assured that your donation is tax-deductible.

Cars for Kids has been helping at-risk youth and their families with their generous financial donations and services that offer greater educational opportunities to enhance and enrich future career paths. As the original Cars for Kids, they have been helping kids earn their diplomas for over three decades.

Write Off The Car, Not The Kid!

Donating your car to Cars for Kids has never been easier. As the original Cars for Kids, they build a brighter future with your help. Make a difference in a kid’s life by donating your car or vehicle to their car donation charity. Call today or go online today and Write Off The Car, Not The Kid!


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