(above) Brian Shapiro shows off his Volvo Cross Country.
Car Donation Program Gives Wheels to Real People
What does it mean to have your own car? For longtime Community Access Unlimited (CAU) member Brian Shapiro, it means both stability and freedom. Before he had a car, Brian had to get a ride from a friend or take an Uber to his job driving a cab in Bloomfield.
“It’s a lot easier,” Brian said, thanks to the Volvo he received as a donation through Community Access Unlimited this fall. “I go to work and take my son places.”
CAU started the vehicle donation program as a way to aid youth and individuals with disabilities who wished to complete their drivers test and gain the independence that comes with owning a vehicle. Now Brian can easily travel to the job he has had for nearly 20 years. Many have already benefited from the donation of reliable cars to get them where they need to go- from work and school to social functions.
“I’ve known about it for a while and it finally worked out,” Brian said.
Unlike other car donation programs, CAU does not sell or scrap donated cars, receiving only a percentage of their value. By donating a vehicle to CAU, 100% of your donation will go to a person with transportation needs.
Those interested in donating a car should contact Mercedes Pagan, fundraising and event director, at 908-354-3040 x4376 or mpagan@caunj.org.
Vehicles that may qualify for donation include those that are new, gently used, or vehicles needing minor body or mechanical work. The owner of the car must have the title at the time of donation. Car donors will receive a donation letter which can serve as a charitable donation, which is tax deductible.
Learn more about donating to or volunteering with CAU at caunj.org/support-us.
About Community Access Unlimited
Community Access Unlimited (CAU), celebrating its 40th year in 2019, supports people with special needs in achieving real lives in the community. CAU gives a voice to adults and youth who traditionally have little power in society, assisting its members with housing, life skills, employment, money management, socialization and civic activities. CAU also supports opportunities for advocacy through training in assertiveness, decision-making and civil rights. Currently serving more than 5,000 individuals and families, CAU continues to grow each year. For more information about CAU and its services, contact us by phone at 908-354-3040, info@caunj.org or by mail at 80 West Grand Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202.
