Some nonprofits actually work to teach students vocational skills in the automotive industry. Students often attend these programs at low or no costs and help them achieve the independence that can turn their lives around.
Most people think of nonprofit organizations as entities that support some cause. They think of organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, or the American Red Cross. All of these groups offer invaluable services for the community, but they aren’t the only kinds of nonprofit organizations out there.
Here are a few nationally recognized nonprofit organizations that steer students into new and exciting automotive careers:
The Newgate School
https://www.newgateschool.org/
The Newgate School is a staple in the Minneapolis area. This 501©(3) technical school helps at-risk adults learn the necessary skills to make it in the automotive world. Students pay no tuition or fees. Graduates become certified auto technicians in just 12-18 months and get snatched up by local dealerships, mechanic organizations, or other companies right away.
The Newgate school relies on auto donations as the main source of funding for the program. Donated cars are used in the classroom as hands-on textbooks. These cars are then sold; the proceeds are put back into the program. The Newgate School also donates restored/repairs cars to single mothers in need through the Wheels for Women program.
The Automotive Training Center
https://www.automotivetrainingcenter.org/
The Automotive Training Center is one of many nonprofit organizations that serves the Atlanta area. This program stands out by believing that all students have potential, regardless of their life circumstances. This program works with low-income and high-risk adults from areas of the city with traditionally low high school graduation rates and crime.
The Automotive Training center has no cost to attend and even provides transportation assistance and lunch on workdays. Graduates of this program earn a certificate and are ready for entry-level technician positions. The community can support this program through vehicle donations, car donations, or visiting for service. Students can perform inspections, regular maintenance, and tire jobs as a way to bring funds into the program.
Youth Automotive Training Center
https://yatc.org
Automotive legend Jim Moran started the Automotive Training Center in 1984 in the Deerfield Beach, FL, area. The goal was to help low/no-income students learn the skills necessary to thrive in the automotive industry. Students are given personalized attention and intense instruction in both automotive theory and practice. YATC also teaches life skill classes twice a week to deal with real-life situations and understand current events.
Students do not pay for the program or materials. They get uniforms, lunch on workdays, and access to training, guest speakers, and more. They also get a professional toolset that they get to keep. The program is funded through financial/equipment donations, fundraising events, and car donations.
Get Involved Today
Whether you’re looking for a way to give back to the community or are seeking a way to improve your own situation, there are tons of nonprofit organizations out there that offer vocational training. If you have an unused car, supplies, or equipment sitting around, consider donating to a worthwhile cause. You never know what your support might mean to a student in need.
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