When considering parting ways with an older vehicle, trading it in isn’t the only option. Irene and Dennis Moore discovered a more impactful route: donating their cars to the American Red Cross. Instead of the typical dealership exchange, the Moores have turned to the American Red Cross Car Donation Program, finding it a simple and rewarding way to support a cause they deeply believe in.
“It’s an easy way to donate,” Irene Moore explained. “I appreciate the work the Red Cross does for so many people. It’s such a worthy cause.” This sentiment highlights the ease and intrinsic reward of contributing through the car donation program.
The Moores aren’t one-time donors; they’ve donated four vehicles over the years, including minivans, an SUV, and even a Cadillac. Their consistent support speaks volumes about the positive experience and the value they see in the American Red Cross car donation program. Irene, currently driving a 2012 Subaru, plans to donate it to the Red Cross when the time comes, demonstrating their ongoing commitment.
Donating a car to the American Red Cross Vehicle Donation Program offers tangible benefits to donors. Beyond the satisfaction of supporting the Red Cross, donors are eligible for a tax deduction. This can be a significant financial advantage, often exceeding the trade-in value offered by dealerships. Furthermore, donating eliminates the hassles of selling a used car privately, such as advertising, negotiating with buyers, and paperwork. The American Red Cross car donation program simplifies the process, providing a convenient and beneficial alternative to traditional car disposal methods.
The Moores’ connection to the Red Cross is personal. Their daughter received a life-saving blood transfusion as an infant, forging a lasting appreciation for the organization. For Irene, a retired microbiologist, donating cars is also about teaching her teenage children the importance of giving back. It’s a practical lesson in prioritizing helping others over material possessions, exemplified through their participation in the American Red Cross car donation program.
The American Red Cross car donation program, operational in Illinois for many years, expanded nationwide in 2013. Managed in partnership with Charitable Adult Rides and Services (CARS), the program accepts a wide range of vehicles. From cars and trucks to motorcycles, RVs, and even non-traditional vehicles like snowmobiles and jet skis, almost anything with a motor can be donated. Remarkably, the Red Cross even accepts vehicles in non-working condition, broadening the scope of potential donations to the American Red Cross car donation program.
LaKeva Lucas, Operations Manager for the Vehicle Donation Program, emphasizes the impact of these donations: “The vehicle is hauled away at no cost to the donor and then sold…with the proceeds going to the Red Cross, where an average of 90 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in delivering care and comfort to those in need.” This efficient allocation of funds ensures that car donations directly contribute to the Red Cross’s vital services. Lucas further highlights the potential value in seemingly worthless vehicles, stating, “People may think their old vehicle is worthless but the donation could be priceless to someone in need of Red Cross services.” This underscores the profound impact of even an older car donated through the American Red Cross car donation program.
Choosing to donate your car to the American Red Cross car donation program is more than just getting rid of an old vehicle. It’s an opportunity to create positive change, receive a tax benefit, and experience the satisfaction of supporting a respected organization that provides crucial aid to those in need. Like the Moores, you too can turn your old car into hope and contribute to the invaluable work of the Red Cross through their car donation program.
