We know that when you donate your car, you want to ensure that your contribution truly makes a difference. At Drive for Good, we value your trust and strive for total transparency in the donation process. This page outlines how every dollar from your car donation is utilized to support vital community programs.
By providing detailed insights into the post-sale proceeds flow—from the initial auction sale to the implementation of our partnered nonprofit programs—we empower you to see exactly how your donation is making a tangible impact in North Dakota.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Drive for Good is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity.
- 70-80% of the gross auction sale from your vehicle goes directly to our partner nonprofits.
- Post-sale expenses such as tow, storage, and processing are deducted before funds reach the charity.
- A typical vehicle sale of $1,500 can generate $790-$900 for direct programs.
- We measure program success in outputs, such as the number of meals served or shelter nights provided.
- Donors can verify our status through IRS pub78, Charity Navigator, and state charity registries.
- Our partners are subject to thorough vetting to ensure high program expense ratios.
How it works, step by step
Car Donation
You donate your vehicle to Drive for Good, and we arrange for free towing and pick-up at your convenience, ensuring no hassle for you.
Auction Sale
The donated vehicle is auctioned off, with the sale typically completed within 2-3 weeks, generating funds for our partner nonprofits.
Expenses Deduction
Post-sale, we deduct necessary expenses, including towing, storage, and auction fees, which can total around 10-20% of the sale price.
Net Proceeds Distribution
The net proceeds from the auction are calculated, and 70-80% is allocated to our partnered nonprofit organizations based on their program needs.
Program Funding
The funds are then utilized to deliver essential services, such as providing meals or shelter, reflecting our commitment to community impact.
Verify it yourself
✓ IRS Status
How: You can verify our tax-exempt status by checking the IRS pub78 database online for 501(c)(3) organizations.
✓ Charity Ratings
How: Visit Charity Navigator or GuideStar to see our financial health and program effectiveness ratings, ensuring transparency at every level.
✓ State Registration
How: Check with the North Dakota Attorney General's office for our charity registration and to review any past complaints or issues.
✓ Form 990 Access
How: Our Form 990, which details our financial activities and program spending, is available for public viewing on the IRS website and other charity databases.
Real impact, real numbers
For example, when a vehicle sells for $1,500, our process allows $790-$900 to be directed to direct programs. At a typical program expense ratio of 75%, these funds provide significant community benefits: approximately 300 meals at a local food bank or up to 15 shelter nights for families in need. Your donation doesn't just help; it transforms lives by providing essential resources where they are needed most.
North Dakota oversight
In North Dakota, we operate within a robust charity oversight framework. The North Dakota Secretary of State's office maintains a registry for charitable organizations, ensuring transparency and accountability. Additionally, the Attorney General’s office oversees the complaint process for any charity-related concerns, providing an avenue for donor protection and complaint resolution. We encourage donors to utilize these resources to verify our commitment to ethical practices.