“Cars Changing Lives” Hosts Charity Car Show to Fuel Their Mission

On Saturday, November 1, the Warren County Fairgrounds will shine with chrome, color, and community spirit as “Cars Changing Lives” revs up for a special charity car show. The event will help raise funds and awareness for the nonprofit, which provides reliable transportation to individuals and families in need across five counties.

The organization was founded by Bill and Sandy Long of the Auto Care Clinic. What began as a small community effort has grown into a life-changing program. Since becoming an official nonprofit in 2020, “Cars Changing Lives” has already gifted 79 vehicles to people who otherwise couldn’t afford one. That’s well above their original goal of 12 cars per year — and now, they’re setting their sights even higher.

“Last year, we gave away 20 cars,” said co-founder Sandy Long. “We’re hoping to get close to that again this year. Maybe even more.”

Here’s how it works: Community members donate used vehicles to the nonprofit. The Auto Care Clinic then inspects, repairs, and readies them for the road. Local case managers, pastors, and service organizations refer potential recipients — often single parents or working families — who need a car to stay employed, take kids to school, or get to medical appointments.

“It’s not just about giving someone a car,” added Barbara Way, Executive Director of Cars Changing Lives.“It’s about restoring hope, providing independence, and helping them keep their lives on track.”

Community Gathers to Support the Mission

To support that mission, the Auto Care Clinic is sponsoring this year’s Cars Changing Lives Car Show — and it’s shaping up to be more than just a display of classic engines and shiny paint jobs. Held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Warren County Fairgrounds, the show welcomes cars, trucks, and motorcycles of all types. Registration begins at 10 a.m., and there’s no entry fee — just a request for donations to support the cause.

“There are no limits on the type of car you bring,” said Way. “It doesn’t have to be a classic. It just needs to be something you’re proud to show off.”

The fairgrounds will feature a packed schedule of fun for all ages. RMA’s Honor Guard will lead the opening ceremony, while DJ Tony Knave of Masterjam Productions provides music throughout the event. Visitors can take part in a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and a bake sale. Food will be available from the Rear 10 Ruritan booth, offering cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and more.

Other attractions include:

• Cheri’s Ice Cream Truck and fresh kettle corn
• Children’s activities, including a local children’s author appearing in costume
• Voting for fan-favorite vehicles in categories like People’s Choice, Best Restored, and Best in Show
• Trophies and dash plaques for the first 50 registered vehicles
• Free coffee and donuts for car participants arriving early

More Than Just a Ride

While the event is sure to draw auto enthusiasts, it’s the purpose behind it that keeps the wheels turning. Transportation, Long noted, is often the final piece of the puzzle for families already working hard to get back on their feet.

“They may already be working with an agency or church,” she said. “They’re doing everything right, but they just can’t get to work or take their kids to daycare. That’s where we come in.”

And the program doesn’t just hand over keys. Every recipient must be referred and meet criteria showing both need and readiness. Once a match is made — between a family’s needs and the type of car available — the transformation begins.

Donated cars don’t have to be in perfect condition, either. Some are repaired for use, while others are used for parts or sold for salvage — with the proceeds helping fund future repairs.

“Every car counts,” said Long. “And every donation, whether it’s a vehicle or a dollar, helps change someone’s life.”

The nonprofit operates across five counties and is a registered 501(c)(3) organization, meaning donations are tax-deductible — a bonus for donors who may no longer need an older vehicle.

As the community gears up for the show, the Cars Changing Lives team remains driven by one clear goal: helping local families move forward — one car at a time.

Want to donate a car or learn more? Click here to visit their website. Or follow them on Facebook.