Donating your vehicle to Wheels of Hope is a meaningful way to give back to your community, and it can be even more powerful when combined with your employer's matching-gift program. Many employers, especially Fortune 500 companies, match employee donations dollar for dollar, amplifying the impact of your generosity. By donating your vehicle, you not only contribute to a worthy cause but also enhance the value of your gift through matching contributions.
Here’s how it works: after donating your car, you will receive a Form 1098-C, which documents the donation for tax purposes. You can then submit a matching-gift request through your employer’s platform, providing the necessary documentation. This seamless process ensures that your donation can work harder and serve more individuals in need, making your contribution even more impactful.
How to activate this channel
Donate Your Vehicle
Initiate your donation to Wheels of Hope by completing the donation form and surrendering your vehicle. You’ll receive a Form 1098-C, which confirms your charitable contribution.
Receive Form 1098-C
After your vehicle is donated, you will be sent the IRS Form 1098-C. This form is essential for tax reporting and for your request for matching contributions.
Submit Matching Request
Log into your employer's matching-gift platform (like Benevity or YourCause) and complete your matching-gift request. Include your 1098-C receipt, charity name (Wheels of Hope), and the charity’s EIN.
Employer Verification
Your employer’s HR department will verify your donation. This process can take 30 to 90 days, depending on the employer and the platform used.
Matching Funds Disbursed
Once verified, your employer will disburse the matching funds directly to Wheels of Hope, doubling the impact of your vehicle donation.
×Impact multiplier
Your car donation provides immediate benefits, but it can have an even greater effect thanks to employer matching programs. For instance, if you donate a vehicle valued at $1,500, and your employer offers a 1:1 match, the total impact becomes $3,000. This means your contribution can directly support more families in need through Wheels of Hope. Some employers even provide a 2:1 or 3:1 match for specific causes, which could significantly enhance your donation's impact. With each contribution, you play a critical role in uplifting the community and expanding the reach of our services.
Common employer platforms + programs
- Benevity
- YourCause
- Bright Funds
- Cybergrants
- Double the Donation
- Charity Navigator
- Good Done Great
How to check eligibility
To find out if your employer offers a matching-gift program, check your employee handbook or contact your HR department. Most large employers, particularly those in tech, finance, and healthcare, participate in matching-gift initiatives. Employees at these organizations can qualify for matching donations after contributing to a recognized 501(c)(3) charity like Wheels of Hope.
Charleston workplace-giving context
In Charleston and across South Carolina, workplace giving is gaining traction, with several Fortune 500 companies establishing matching programs to support their employees' charitable endeavors. Local United Way chapters also encourage donations through similar initiatives. By participating in these programs, you align with a growing trend that amplifies the community impact and ensures that more resources are funneled into local needs.