At Drive Forward, we understand that donating a car can feel daunting. You might wonder where your contribution truly goes and how it benefits our community. We want to assure you that transparency is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to showing you the concrete impact of your generosity.
This page details the journey your vehicle donation takes, from auction sale to how funds are allocated for various programs. By shining a light on our processes, we hope to answer your questions and provide you with the confidence that your donation is making a real difference in Hartford.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Drive Forward is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
- 70-80% of gross auction proceeds go directly to our partner nonprofits.
- Post-sale deductions include towing, storage, fees, and processing costs.
- Average vehicle sale price is around $1,500, leading to $1,050-$1,200 net proceeds.
- Our partner organizations maintain a 75% program-expense ratio.
- Your donation could translate to over 300 meals or up to 15 shelter-nights.
- Independent verifications can be made through IRS pub78 and Form 990.
How it works, step by step
Vehicle Donation
When you donate your car to Drive Forward, we arrange for its towing, ensuring a hassle-free experience for you.
Auction Sale
The vehicle is auctioned, and we aim to secure the highest possible price, typically around $1,500 per vehicle.
Deductions
From the auction sale proceeds, we deduct costs like towing, storage, and processing fees, averaging $300-$400.
Net Proceeds
After deductions, around $1,050 to $1,200 from each vehicle sale goes to our partner nonprofits.
Program Spending
With an average program-expense ratio of 75%, $790-$900 from your donation funds critical direct services like meals and shelter.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS pub78 Lookup
How: You can verify our 501(c)(3) status by visiting the IRS website and using the pub78 tool to confirm our charity status.
✓ Charity Navigator Search
How: Check our ratings on Charity Navigator to see how we stack up against national standards for transparency and efficiency.
✓ Attorney General Registry
How: The Connecticut Attorney General maintains a registry of charities that can confirm our legitimacy and compliance with state laws.
✓ Form 990 Retrieval
How: Access our Form 990 filings on GuideStar or other charity databases to review our financial health and program performance.
✓ Better Business Bureau
How: Visit the Better Business Bureau website to see our profile, ratings, and whether we have had any complaints against us.
Real impact, real numbers
For example, if your vehicle sells for $1,500, after auction fees and process deductions, approximately $1,050 to $1,200 will reach our nonprofit partners. Assuming a program-expense ratio of 75%, between $790 and $900 of your donation will directly support essential programs. This funding could provide over 300 meals for families facing food insecurity or offer 10-15 nights of shelter for those experiencing homelessness, demonstrating the profound impact of your generous donation.
Hartford oversight
In Connecticut, we are overseen by the state’s charity registrar and the Attorney General's office, ensuring transparency in our operations. If you have concerns about any charitable organizations, you can file a complaint through the Attorney General's office. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available for any inquiries regarding nonprofit practices in Hartford and the surrounding area.
FAQ
How do I know my donation is used for the intended purpose?
What happens if my car doesn’t sell?
Is my donation tax-deductible?
What are the common scams related to car donations?
Who benefits from my donation?
How is Drive Forward funded?
How can I verify your impact?
More transparency pages
We invite you to take the next step and consider donating your vehicle to Drive Forward. Your generosity can transform lives in Hartford, and with our commitment to transparency, you can feel confident that your contribution will directly support essential programs in our community. Together, we can make a lasting impact.