Send at-risk kids back to school right with a Columbus car donation

Volunteers of America of Greater Ohio gears up for fall with our Youth Education Center.

As the back-to-school season gets into full swing, Volunteers of America of Greater Ohio is excited to welcome families to our Youth Education Center.

To kick off a new school year, our Family Services Program hosted a back-to-school celebration picnic Friday, August 16. Thanks to donations to Operation Backpack®, each child received a backpack and school supplies to get ready for the new school year.

Volunteers of America looks forward to seeing both new and familiar faces each fall. Our Youth Education Center accomplishes much more than giving underprivileged children an academic boost. It offers children a safe place to go after school while investing in their social growth and development. Each child that is part of our Youth Education Center is either currently homeless or was recently homeless – meaning that this program is a lifeline for many.

This after school program also helps children explore careers, offers homework help and tutoring, provides nutritious meals and encourages children to explore their emotions while improving communication.

Wrapping up our Youth Summer Program.

Children who participated in our eight-week Youth Education Center Summer Program had a blast as they practiced for and hosted a talent show. They also explored Ash Cave in the Hocking Hills, learned about the life cycle of the butterfly at the Franklin Park Conservatory and took a few spills roller-skating at United Skates of America.

Earlier in the summer, kids also had the opportunity to makes pizzas with ARAMARK at the Greater Columbus Convention Center kitchen, grab free ice cream from the CD 102.5 ice Cream truck and work on daily art projects and educational activities.

Donate your vehicle in Ohio and be a part of a child’s future.

As you might know, our Youth Education Center does not receive any federal, state or local funding. Each dollar comes from donations and Volunteers of America thrift stores and vehicle donations. At Volunteers of America, the homeless children we serve depend completely on people like you.

Changing a child’s future is easier than you think. If you’d like to donate your car, truck, boat, RV, motorcycle (or just about anything else with a motor) in Ohio, start by filling out our short online form or call (800) 862-6030. We’ll be in touch with you shortly to set up your free same-day towing. Don’t forget, you could also earn more for your vehicle donation on your tax return than you would by selling it privately. You can also check out our vehicle donation FAQ to learn more.