At Revive Rides, we recognize that donating your vehicle is a significant decision. Donors often wonder where their contributions will go and how they will be used. We are committed to transparency and want to provide a clear picture of how the proceeds from your car donation directly benefit our community.
This page will walk you through the flow of auction proceeds, from the initial sale to the programs funded by our partner nonprofits. We believe that understanding the pathway of your donation will reinforce your trust in our mission and the impact we make together.
✓Key facts you can verify
- Revive Rides is a certified 501(c)(3) public charity.
- 70-80% of gross auction sale proceeds reach our nonprofit partners.
- For every $1,500 vehicle sold, $1,050-$1,200 goes to the partner nonprofit.
- The program expense ratio of our partners is at least 75%.
- Impact is measured in program outputs, not just donation amounts.
- We operate under the oversight of the Massachusetts Attorney General.
How it works, step by step
Vehicle Donation
You donate your car, and we arrange for a free towing service. The vehicle is picked up and transported to a secure processing facility, ensuring no upfront costs for you.
Auction Sale
The vehicle is auctioned off, maximizing the sale price that can be obtained. The auction typically takes place within 7-14 days after the vehicle's pickup.
Deductions
From the auction proceeds, we deduct necessary costs such as towing, storage, and processing fees. This ensures that only the net amount is directed to our partner nonprofit.
Net Proceeds Allocation
Generally, 70-80% of the gross auction sale amount is allocated to our nonprofit partners. For example, from a $1,500 vehicle sale, $1,050-$1,200 would reach the charity.
Program Spending
Our partners utilize these funds effectively, with a program expense ratio averaging 75%. This means that approximately $790-$900 from that sale goes directly into impact-driven programs.
Verify it yourself
✓ Verify IRS Status
How: You can confirm our 501(c)(3) status through the IRS Publication 78 online database. This ensures we are recognized as a legitimate charity.
✓ Check Charity Ratings
How: Visit Charity Navigator or GuideStar to review our ratings and financial health. These platforms assess charities based on transparency and effectiveness.
✓ Review State Registrations
How: The Massachusetts Attorney General's office maintains a charity registry. You can search for Revive Rides to verify our standing and compliance.
✓ Access Financial Reports
How: Our Form 990 is publicly available and can be retrieved online. This document provides detailed financial information about our operations.
✓ BBB Rating Review
How: Check our Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating for insights on our trustworthiness and customer satisfaction level.
Real impact, real numbers
For instance, if we sell a vehicle for $1,500, after all deductions, approximately $790-$900 could directly fund programs at our nonprofit partners. This translates to providing over 300 meals to families in need through our food bank partner or 10-15 shelter nights for individuals experiencing homelessness at our housing support partner. Your vehicle donation has the power to create tangible impact in the lives of others.
Boston oversight
In Boston, we operate under strict oversight from the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office, ensuring that donors can trust us. Should you have any concerns, the AG's office provides resources for filing complaints against charities. Additionally, local consumer protection resources are available to help you assess nonprofit organizations in our region.