GSCM and Vehicles for Change (VFC) are teaming up to raise funds to enrich the programs and experiences that Girl Scouts offer young women while simultaneously helping low-income families obtain reliable transportation.Vehicles for Change is a nonprofit organization that refurbishes and provides donated vehicles to low-wage families for employment purposes. VFC exists so worthy families can achieve financial and personal independence that comes from owning a vehicle. In many cases, single-mothers are the beneficiaries of the program.

Every time a friend of GSCM donates a car to VFC, the organization receives 40% of the net proceeds. GSCM Vice President of Advancement, Maria T. Johnson, introduced VFC to the council when she was looking for a prudent way to discard her old and failing vehicle.

“There are a lot of organizations that you can donate your old or unwanted car to but VFC has a great mission,” Johnson noted. “VFC will either repair the car so that others can use the vehicle or turn it over for cash that gets donated back to their organization to help it carry out its mission.”

More than 3,200 cars have been awarded through VFC and more than 9,600 lives have changed since 1999; 35-45 more cars are awarded each month. At least 70% of the individuals who received a car have obtained better jobs and can take their children to after-school care, recreational and athletic activities never before possible.

Interested in donating a car or learning more about the program? Visit www.vehiclesforchange.org or contact Maria Johnson at mjohnson@gscm.org.