How we started
In the heart of Tennessee, a group of compassionate locals recognized a troubling trend: many families were eligible for vital benefits like SNAP and Families First but had yet to enroll. This gap in assistance often went unnoticed, leaving our neighbors struggling without the help they deserved. Inspired by a desire to help these families, we realized that we could turn the power of vehicle donations into a funding model that could support a benefits-research service.
And so, Volunteer Wheels was born. By collecting donated vehicles, we could generate the necessary funds to connect our fellow Tennesseans to essential programs like TennCare, WIC, and LIHEAP. With each donation, we’re not just receiving a car; we’re also investing in the future of our communities. Together, we can break down barriers and ensure our friends and families have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Our mission
At Volunteer Wheels, our mission is to empower Tennessee residents by enhancing their access to vital support services. By utilizing vehicle donations as our funding mechanism, we provide a free benefits-research service to connect individuals and families with essential programs like SNAP, TennCare, Families First, WIC, and LIHEAP. We believe everyone in Tennessee deserves assistance, dignity, and the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives. Through our work, we cultivate a spirit of community that champions every neighbor’s right to thrive.
What we stand for
Radical Transparency
We openly share our processes, ensuring our donors and clients understand how their contributions directly impact our community's well-being.
Zero-Fee Pickup
We believe that every vehicle donation should maximize community benefit, so we never charge fees for pickup services—it's free for you!
Local-First Research
Our research focuses on local needs and resources, ensuring our efforts align with the unique challenges Tennessee residents face.
Dignity in Every Interaction
We treat every individual with respect and compassion, recognizing that everyone deserves dignity in their pursuit of support services.
Our principles
- Empathy drives our actions and decisions.
- Collaboration strengthens our community connections.
- Integrity is at the core of our mission.
- Innovation fuels our approach to resource access.
- Commitment to continuous improvement is essential.
Why this city
Tennessee is home to a diverse range of communities, from the bustling neighborhoods of Nashville to the close-knit towns of the Smoky Mountains. Many of these areas experience significant enrollment gaps in benefits programs. For instance, historically underserved populations in neighborhoods like East Nashville and South Memphis often miss out on crucial support services. By focusing on Tennessee, we can directly address these disparities, ensuring that our work fundamentally improves the lives of individuals and families across the state who are still navigating food insecurity, healthcare access, and essential services.
Ready to make a difference? Donate your vehicle to Volunteer Wheels today, and know that your contribution will directly support neighbors in need. Alternatively, if you're seeking benefits that could improve your life or the life of someone you know, use our free benefits finder to connect with vital programs in your area. Together, we can build a stronger Tennessee!