Most of us take transportation for granted. But for many people, routine activities such as going to work, taking kids to school, grocery shopping and medical visits are a challenge. A catastrophic illness or unforeseen circumstances can suddenly change lives and without transportation, make it difficult to get back on the road to stability.
Programs such as NABC Recycled Rides® can make a big difference. At Washburn Tech, students in auto collision and auto service technology work with licensed technicians to refurbish cars for families and organizations in need. Local businesses and individuals also donate parts and supplies to get the vehicles on the road again. Through a partnership with the United Way of Kaw Valley, we choose deserving individuals and non-profit organizations to receive these life-changing gifts.
The next Recycled Rides give away will be in the Spring of 2025.
Through the NABC Recycled Rides®, insurers donate vehicles (theft recoveries and financial totals) that collision repair shops volunteer to return to pre-accident condition, and we work through local charities to gift them to people in need of reliable transportation.
Candidates for a vehicle cannot self-nominate, or be nominated by a family member or friend. They need to be nominated, or “sponsored” by a charity that knows them and is familiar with their situation.
Charities and nonprofit organizations are encouraged to nominate a candidate for the Recycled Rides program. Nomination forms are now available below. Qualifications include:
The criteria that the candidate must meet is as follows:
Persons in the household Target Monthly Income required
1 $2,510 - $3,138
2 $3,407 - $4,258
3 $4,303 - $5,379
4 $5,200 - $6,500
5 $6,097 - $7,621
6 $6,993 - $8,742
7 $7,890- $9,863
Nominations have closed for the spring Recycled Rides giveaway. Please check back in October for the next possible Recycled Rides opportunity.
Washburn Tech was the first college in the nation to participate in the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides® program. So far, we have given away more than 30 automobiles. It is one more way that Washburn Tech supports its mission of delivering innovative educational and training opportunities to strengthen the communities we serve. Take a quick glimpse through the lens of KTWU Channel 11 located on the Washburn University campus.
