If you’re like most people, donating a car may seem a little unusual at first. Many ask, “Why wouldn’t I just sell it?”
For most donors, the decision comes down to necessity (repairs may cost more than the car is worth) or convenience (donating is often faster and easier than selling). But for Project JumpStart supporters, the motivation runs deeper: every donated vehicle directly helps Baltimore residents overcome transportation barriers, get to work, and sustain stable careers in construction and beyond.
It’s also worth noting that in the United States, 10 to 15 million vehicles reach the end of their useful life every year. Most of these cars are crushed, dismantled, or recycled—essentially vanishing into scrap yards. By donating instead, your vehicle avoids becoming just another statistic and is transformed into a tool that helps someone change their life.
Here are five reasons people choose to donate their cars to Project JumpStart Wheels:
#1) To honor a loved one’s legacy.
Some donors give in memory of a family member or friend who worked in the trades, or who believed in the power of second chances. Donating a car becomes a way to continue that legacy, helping new graduates build their futures.
#2) A car, boat, or piece of equipment (yeah we take them all!) is no longer needed.
An older adult who no longer drives, or a family who upgrades to a newer vehicle, often sees car donation as a way to make sure their vehicle keeps serving a purpose rather than sitting idle.
The car may be small and it may not even run! But its impact, helping a graduate secure reliable transportation and a student learn how to fix up cars, can be life-changing.
#3) To support workforce development and second chances.
Project JumpStart trains Baltimore residents, many of whom face barriers to employment, to launch careers in the construction industry. Donors often say they want their car to go beyond “scrap value” and instead give someone a chance to get to work, build stability, and provide for their family.
#4) A family car has run its course.
Many donors recall the minivan that carried kids to soccer practice, or the sedan that survived countless road trips. Instead of sending it to the junkyard—like the 10+ million vehicles that end up in salvage yards every year—they choose to donate so that the car’s “second life” can be tied to helping another family build stability.
#5) It’s the easiest way to make a meaningful impact.
Selling or repairing an extra car can be a hassle. Donating through Project JumpStart Wheels is simple, and donors know their gift goes directly to a program that changes lives—helping graduates access reliable transportation and keep the jobs they worked so hard to earn.
#6) Eligible for a tax deduction.
Donating your vehicle isn’t just a charitable act—it can also be financially smart.
Vehicle donations to Project JumpStart (a registered nonprofit) may qualify as a tax-deductible charitable contribution. Donors receive the proper documentation to include with their tax filings, making it a win-win: a smoother ride for a graduate, and a potential deduction for you.
Every donated vehicle helps JumpStart graduates get to training, interviews, and jobs, reducing one of the biggest barriers to long-term employment: reliable transportation.
🚗 Ready to donate your car, truck, SUV, or van? Learn more and start your donation today at projectjumpstarttraining.org/jumpstart-wheels.