Cars Changing Lives Drives Toward Big Goals in 2026

Cars Changing Lives, the local nonprofit dedicated to providing reliable vehicles to individuals in need, is entering 2026 with big goals and several upcoming events designed to raise both awareness and support.

During a recent interview, Executive Director Barbara Way and Treasurer and Fundraising Chair Jennifer Schaefer shared updates on what’s ahead for Cars Changing Lives, and how the community can get involved.

“We just gave away car number 81 yesterday,” said Way, smiling. “Our original goal was 12 cars a year, but we’ve bumped it up to 16. And we’re really pushing to hit 100 this year.”

The organization accepts donated vehicles in any condition, running or not. Some are fixed up and given away; others are salvaged or sold to raise funds for repairs. But the greatest need, Schaefer emphasized, is for vehicles in good condition that can be passed directly to recipients.

“Without donated cars, we can’t do what we do,” she said. “We’re always in need.”

How It All Started

Cars Changing Lives officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2020, but the idea began earlier, in 2018. Founders Bill and Sandy Long had a car they wanted to donate to someone in need. What they didn’t expect was the flood of nominations that came in, over 45 for that first vehicle alone. Instead of picking just one winner, they found more cars and gave away several.

That moment revealed the community’s deep need and launched a mission.

Who Gets the Cars?

To qualify, recipients must not currently own a vehicle and must demonstrate the ability to maintain one, such as having a valid license, insurance, and the means to cover ongoing costs like gas and maintenance. Applicants don’t apply directly. Instead, nominations come through caseworkers, social workers, or pastors who know the applicant’s situation and help guide them through the process.

Every effort is made to match the right car with the right person. “If someone has three kids, we’re not going to give them a tiny sedan,” Way said. “And we’re not giving a 16-year-old their first car. The recipient must be at least 21 and able to manage the responsibilities that come with owning a vehicle.”

“Most of our recipients have no vehicle at all,” said Way. “They rely on friends or public transit—if it’s even available—and that limits their access to jobs, healthcare, education, and their children’s needs.

Recipients have included single parents, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities.

“When a mom picks up her car and says, ‘Now I can take my kids to the park,’ that’s a moment,” Way shared. “It’s not just a car, it’s freedom, stability, and opportunity.”

Upcoming Events

Cars Changing Lives is kicking off the new year with a number of events to raise funds and recruit volunteers.

Meet & Greet – January 29

On Monday, January 29, at 5:30 p.m., the nonprofit will host a meet-and-greet at Auto Care Clinic in Front Royal. Anyone curious about volunteering, joining a committee, or even becoming a board member is welcome. Food and refreshments will be provided.

“You don’t have to commit long-term,” Schaefer said. “Even if you just want to help for a day at an event, it all makes a difference.”

Pool Tournament – February 8

A Scotch Doubles Pool Tournament will be held Sunday, February 8, at On Cue Sports Bar & Grill in Front Royal. The tournament runs from 9 a.m. to approximately 6 p.m. with 50/50 drawings, great food, and good company. Entry is $50 per team, and proceeds support the nonprofit’s vehicle donation efforts.

“On Cue has been such a great community partner,” Schaefer noted. “They’ve helped so many nonprofits, and we’re really thankful for their support.”

First Annual Golf Tournament – May 8

Cars Changing Lives will host its first annual charity golf tournament on Friday, May 8, at Shenandoah Valley Golf Club. Entry is $125 per person or $500 per team, and includes 18 holes, cart, greens fees, and lunch.

There will be raffles, a 50/50 drawing, hole-in-one prizes, golf bag giveaways, and even a putting contest with liquor and wine bottles as prizes.

“We’re aiming for 25 teams,” said Schaefer. “It’s going to be a really fun day and a big fundraiser for us.”

How to Donate a Car

If you have a vehicle you no longer need, whether it runs or not, you can donate it to Cars Changing Lives. The group can often tow it for you at no charge, thanks to a partnership with JPG Towing.

“If it’s fixable, we’ll fix it. If it’s not, we’ll scrap it or sell it to help fund another repair,” Way explained.

The group works closely with community partners, including Auto Center, JPG Towing, and local charities such as Hike Kidz.

“It really does take a village,” Schaefer said. “We couldn’t do it without our partners, our volunteers, and our donors.”

Want to Help?

To learn more, donate a vehicle, or attend an upcoming event, visit https://cclvanp.org/