5 Reasons to Donate Your Car This Summer

Donating your car to Volunteers of America positively impacts your community as well as your personal life. Not only will you be funding valuable, life-saving programs that benefit veterans and their families, but you will be doing your mind, body and spirit of service, as well. Here are five reasons you should consider donating your car, boat, RV or motorcycle to Volunteers of America of Greater Ohio this summer.


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1. Reduce Carbon Footprint

Did you know that automobiles emit almost 4.7 metric tons of carbon dioxide a year? That's about five elephants worth of greenhouse gases floating into the atmosphere. For older vehicles, that number increases dramatically. You can reduce your carbon footprint and preserve the environment by donating your vehicle and opting for a more environmentally friendly option. Think bicycle or public transportation.

2. Increase Exercise

Once you donate your car to Volunteers of America, you can consider options like walking, biking, rollerblading and skateboarding for transportation. Increasing your amount of exercise, daily, is good for the mind, body and spirit. Elevating your heart rate through exercise releases endorphins which are helpful with conditions such as anxiety and depression. The Mayo Clinic suggests 75 minutes of vigorous exercise a week. Donating your vehicle to Volunteers of America can change a life for a homeless Veteran and their family, but could also inspire a lifestyle change for you.

3. Save Money

Did you know that owning a car could cost you almost $7000 a year? Between maintenance, gas and other unexpected costs, the expenses add up fast. Donating your car to Volunteers of America is not only tax deductible, but many generous gifters have found that they received more in tax write-offs than if they had sold their vehicle privately.

4. Spend Time Outdoors

It's a fact: spending time outside has many health benefits. Donating your car to Volunteers of America may end up forcing you to spend more time in nature, which may be just what the doctor ordered. Why is being outside so great? Existing in nature spurs weight loss, reduces stress and increases brain function.

5. Make a Difference in your Community

Donating to Volunteers of America is fast, easy and free. The endless benefits have a direct impact on veterans and their family members right here in Ohio. Your donation will fund programs that offer housing to the homeless and employment placement to veterans, as well as rehabilitation and mental health treatment. Consider donating your car to Volunteers of America today.