How Artemis II and her crew inspire

As I write these few words about inspiring humans, I’m getting a little education on how the Artemis II crew is to be transported from their craft to the medical bay. They’re about to fill their lungs with Earth air once again. Feet firmly planted on our little orb, they’ll turn their attention toward helping their bodies readjust to the pull of gravity.

The crew is comprised of Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen (Oh, Canada!). If you’re like me, you’ve likely been a bit taken up with the many messages that have been beamed down to us from journey. Messages of integrity, togetherness, compassion, and achievement.

Waiting hopefully-expectantly for them to safely poke their noses out into Earth’s sea air feels like we’re, somehow, all connected by those messages.

Messages like…

Koch: “We will explore. We will build.” She goes on, “We will build ships. We will visit again.” Then, “We will construct science outposts. We will drive rovers.” And, “We will do radio astronomy. We will found companies.” Finally, “We will bolster industry. We will inspire. But ultimately, we will always choose Earth. We will always choose each other.”

Then, Glover: “Trust us, you look amazing, you look beautiful. And from up here, you also look like one thing. Homo sapiens, all of us, no matter where you’re from or what you look like, we’re all one people.“

Hansen: “As we surpass the furthest distance humans have ever traveled from planet Earth, we do so in honoring the extraordinary efforts and feats of our predecessors in human space exploration. We will continue our journey even further into space before Mother Earth succeeds in pulling us back to everything that we hold dear. But we most importantly choose this moment to challenge this generation and the next to make sure this record is not long-lived.”

And lastly, Wiseman: “No matter how long we look at this, our brains are not processing this image in front of us. It is absolutely spectacular, surreal. I know there’s no adjectives. I’m going to need to invent some new ones to describe what we are looking at out this window.”

Our global community and reaching for the stars

The Artemis II mission is, these intrepid explorers have often noted, the outcome of ingenuity and effort be hundreds of people. People working together in concert, across nations. Then putting ingenuity and effort into inspirational execution.

(As I write, mission control has taken the microphone. In the background you can hear the cacophony of humanity working, waiting, expecting, and thinking ahead. Furthermore, even as they await the transport of The Four via army transport helicopters to med support, mission control is already talking about missions yet to come!)

Artemis missions “to the moon and beyond” will be the effort of women and men around the world.

Beyond Artemis II

Jubilation has just broken out at mission control as the first crew member emerged from Integrity. The rousing and inspiring success of this mission will compel the NASA program forward for decades to come.

Our Canadian representative on board, Jeremy Hansen, has proven to be a joyful sage at every grip of the mic. Leading up to departure, and in flight, his commentary has been both playful and evocative. Instructing us to “live in our integrity,” he often notes the Anishinaabe seven sacred teachings (respect, love, courage, honesty, wisdom, humility, truth) that are represented on his flight patch.

These are values we can all lean into, hey? These are the values that pulse through humanity — the very best of who we are in individually, and in community. The very best of who we can be even while our feet are firmly planted on terra firma. Hansen’s gentle challenge to himself, then to his children, and out beyond to all of us, is to live deeply into the best of who we all can be. A sage call to lovingkindness that resounds, now, to the moon and back.

The post Mooning Over Artemis II | We’re All One People appeared first on Donate A Car.

Donor stories reflect the personality of Canadian generosity

Gary donated his Toyota Tercel for The Knowledge Network:

We raised $821.50 for the Canadian Red Cross when Jean donated her VW Tiguan. It was important to her that we know,

“A myriad of issues: Engine light is on – it’s apparently to do with the environmental filtering; the shocks have cracks in them, still work, but might need replacing soon; the airbag light has been on for a while; the clock spring appears to be broken – none of the steering electronics work, including the horn; there is significant rust forming on the driver’s side door; the windshield has a small chip/crack where a rock flew into it; the rear windshield wiper has broken off; given the valuation, the repairs would cost more than the car is worth.

IT CAN BE DRIVEN AT PRESENT, so long as the battery gets a jump. But with no working horn, I don’t think it is technically road-worthy. Note: I’m also donating the summer tires (which are in the backseat). The winter tires are on the car.”

Short and to-the-point donor stories

“We would rather donate it than fix it.” 2014 Ford F-150 for the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation

“I want my donation to go to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.” This 2010 Toyota Yaris donor’s charity choice was story in itself. They were the IRSSS’s first vehicle donor. Thanks to their gift we were able to add the charity to our own drop-down list.

“I was in the process of rebuilding it as it is a vintage vehicle. The engine turns over beautifully and all the parts are there.” This donor’s 1958 Cadillac Seville was auctioned for the Action Coalition on Human Trafficking Alberta Association.

A Suzuki Grand Vitara donor for Habitat for Humanity donor noted, “Very happy to have helped.” And help she did! Her vehicle was auctioned for a $2030.87 donation!

Long(er) and full-of-heart donor stories

“Dear Donate a Car Canada:
The towing gentleman was wonderful!! Very understanding and helpful. He
showed great consideration and care attaching her to the tow truck.
He also allowed my brother & I to say our goodbyes.
He understood my feelings of sadness of letting go of a vehicle which has
been an important part of my life.
Good vehicles are easy to find but when you find a great vehicle it becomes
a part of you. She was a member of my family.
He is a wonderful, thoughtful man. Please thank him for me.
I am thankful for Donate A Car Canada as I know “Subbie” is going to a
great cause.
It is comforting to know the proceeds are going to the Cancer Society.
Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. God Bless you all.” ~ 2008 Subaru Forester donor for the Canadian Cancer Society

Then, a 2012 Hyundai Genesis Sedan wrote,

“The Genesis is in good condition. No mechanical issues, good visual condition, no rust showing.

As mentioned, the car has been sitting a while and battery is dead. It might start with a boost, but unlikely given the time.

I also include a complete set of snow tires on rims. Tires (Michelin) somewhat worn down, but still useful.

The tires currently on are all seasons and in great shape.

I maintained it very well over the years. There are no mechanical issues, and there is no rust. It has just been sitting for a while. It just needs another battery if it does not boost.

I would certainly hope that it can be sold at auction.”

And sold at auction it was! The donation outcome? A whopping $5357.90 for the Canadian Institute for Advancements in Mental Health!

It’s time to add your very own donor story

Follow us on our socials (we’re on Face Book and Instagram) to connect with the hundreds of happy vehicle donors there. Better yet? Donate a car, truck, van, SUV, or motorcycle today! The tow is free, and you’ll receive a tax receipt for the net proceeds of the re-sale or recycle of your vehicle.

We’re a click or a call (1-877-250-4904) away and we can’t wait to work with you on behalf of the charity you love!

The post Donor Stories | Funny and Fabulous Generosities appeared first on Donate A Car.

Social justice and basic human kindness – what a pair!

Social justice and freedom are deeply connected. If we’re not thinking much about a need for shelter, food, equal pay, or basic human rights…well…it might mean things are going pretty well for us!

On the other hand, if we or our children are going to bed with an empty tummy, social justice might be top-of-mind.

Equity, dignity, basic human dignity — these things are felt most keenly in their absence. If you have been marginalized, you know. You. Know.

At the heart of social justice is one simple reality: human compassion. Human kindness. If I can perspective take (even so very fleetingly) on what it might like to be you? Then, no matter how different you and I are, suddenly all that matters is that all be afforded the same basic rights. If I can feel your suffering, even just a little, perhaps I will lean into searching for restorative action. What follows: action that allows all of us to flourish together.

But how can we make an actual difference?

Tipping the needle of food and housing security seems a daunting task. Gender equality? How is that a thing we’re talking about in the 2000’s? That any Canadian citizen is unsure of their safety in our streets, in our towns, in their jobs? Unthinkable. And here we are.

The happy news? You and I are the change. Every dignifying, inclusive, evolving understanding act we take counts. This Kindness Week, experiment with your own acts of justice. They can be so small: listen to folx with differing points of view. Learn something new about a demographic or people group you are unfamiliar with. Hold open a door. Reach out to a loved one. Just be kind, attentive, caring You.

If you’re curious about matters of social justice in Canada, start exploring your local charities. You wouldn’t believe how many thousands of Canadians are working toward a more inclusive, safe, and nourished world right in your own back yard!

We’re in this together

As long as you are doing your part, and I mine? Issues like housing insecurity, food insecurity can be a thing of the past. If we are evolving our understanding of points of view and quick to share what we have? Then it won’t be long until being Canadian will be synonymous with equity, equality, safety, and provision.

The post World Day of Social Justice appeared first on Donate A Car.

Valentine, Gal-entine…love it or leave it, this month is all about heart

This is it! The month when you have every permission you ever needed to offer a “valentine” to the people, places, and causes you love. We get it. So much commercialism! Fakery. Pink-ness!

Buying in to chocolates, flowers, and bling may just not be your thing.

But love? You know you’re all about the love!

And Heart Month is a great time to turn fluff and bother into the gift that will keep your charity’s heart beating strong.

Heart Month

February is about more than just heart-shaped cards and sweets.

Heart Month is an opportunity to attend to our health, and the health of the ones we love. Particularly, heart health. If this is a cause close to you, visit the Heart & Stroke Foundation to learn more about how to get involved in your province!

A valentine for any Canadian charity you love

Moreover, charity of choice turns vehicle donation for any charity into heart work. You can donate your car, van, truck, SUV, or motorcycle to any registered Canadian charity. Really! ANY one of them.

So, who do you love? Is your heartbeat for vulnerable kids or people in need? If you or a loved one has experienced illness, your care may be focused on a diabetes, cancer, or heart disease charity. Social justice, global concerns, clean water, or food and housing security: Canada has a charity for that.

You might be all about toe beans and floppy ears: there are thousands of charities for you that need your TLC! Wildlife and the environment? Canada has a charity for that, too.

‘Need a little help making a decision? Visit CanadaHelps. You can also just pop over to our Charities page to see who is actively on our own receiving list!

Will you be our valentine?

Do you have an unused, or unwanted vehicle you’re ready to turn into a valentine for charity? This may be the easiest gift you give all season!

The process?

Simple (It takes less than 10 minutes to fill in the donation form).

Free (You’ll get a call from the towing agent pronto — they’ll set up free pick up timing that works for you).

Quick (Then, it’s just a matter of time until your charity receives the net proceeds and you have your tax receipt).

Are you a charity just waiting on a few valentines to come your way?

We can help! You are just a few steps away from getting set up with our vehicle donation program! We will take care of every detail in your donors’ car donation experience. CanadaHelps has you covered in getting tax receipts right into the hands of your donors, too. There is no cost to you for this service!

From our hearts to yours, donors and charities alike: Happy Valentine’s Day! May you be met by community, compassion, and connection through out the year ahead.

The post Heart Month | More Than Just a Valentine for Charity appeared first on Donate A Car.

10 Pontiac donations, 10 caring causes

As we wrap up our month-end accounting (our first one of 2026!), Pontiac donations are making their giving mark for Western Canadian charities.

It’s been a unique first month of the year for Pontiac donations. Typically we see makes and models spread across the country. From PEI to Vancouver Island, all kinds of makes and models roll in. What’s unique about the Vibes, Montanas, and Sunfires this month? They are all BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba donations!

Another unique outcome? Each donor selected a different charity of choice! Often we’ll see multiple donations for some of the country’s more well known national charities. Not this month.

Here’s how it all breaks down…

Check out these interesting stats…

Three Pontiac Vibes were donated this month — two from Alberta, and one from BC. Their receiving charities: Medicine Hat SPCA, the Alberta Cancer Foundation, and the Knowledge Network Corporation.

One G5 and two G6 donations rumbled in. The donors’ chosen charities: ALIES & the Back Porch, Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan, and the Linden Benevolent Society for Seniors.

Up next, a triple run of Montana donations! Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Vancouver Island, Centre Flavie Laurent, and the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre will receive their respective gifts in the next few days.

Charities all set for a winter boost

There’s nothing to clear the winter blah’s like a zot of funds to keep doing the work you love! Any charity in Canada can receive a vehicle donation through Donate a Car Canada. These Pontiac donations add up to hundreds of precious donation dollars for their receiving charities.

Charities do not pay any fees to be part of our program. Between ourselves and CanadaHelps, all aspects of the vehicle donation process are managed on each charity’s behalf. This is important because managing this as an individual charity could be cost prohibitive and unwieldy. We’re here to take care of everything from paperwork to free tows so that your charity of choice can simply keep doing the compassionate things they do best!

From Pontiac to Plymouth, every car counts

Your unused and unwanted vehicle will make a big difference for the charity you love. Donating is simple and quick. First, fill in our online donation form (this takes just a few minutes). Then, wait for your phone to ring (it’s the transport agent calling to arrange your free pick up). Finally, watch your inbox. Your tax receipt will arrive via email just as soon as we have payment from the agent and have disbursed your gift to your chosen charity.

If you’d like to talk to a real person (we’re actual funny, capable, humans!), we’re just a call away: 1-877-250-4904 will get one of us on the phone. We love providing exceptional donor support and we welcome your call.

However you go about it, we are at-the-ready to work alongside you on behalf of the charity you care about!

The post Powerhouse Pontiac Donations appeared first on Donate A Car.

A bit about Donate a Car Canada

Donate a Car Canada is an Alberta-based business that has been in operation for over two decades. We work on behalf of any charity in Canada — all across the country. That’s right! We serve in every province! Our role is to help you turn your donation-ready car, truck, van, SUV, or motorcycle into a monetary gift for your charity of choice.

We do this by assigning the vehicle to our cooperating agents for your free tow service. We work with recyclers, re-sellers, and auction house/re-sale agents. The vehicle is sold as-is to the highest bidder, or as scrap metal/parts.

If your interested, you can check us out at the Better Business Bureau. Many of our receiving charities will welcome a call to reassure of our long-standing care and integrity, too!

Car donation scams: how can I tell?

Big promises are a big red flag! A good thing to look out for in vetting a program’s legitimacy is the dollar value they’re offering: does it reflect the market? 

The metal market goes up and down — a lot! The weight of the metal in a compact car is different from a truck, or a van. A vehicle donation program should be paid out based on that value. Parts also add value, for some kinds of vehicles. By the time the scrap yard working with you drains the fluids, takes care of the tires, strips the saleable parts, and crushes the car, they may be out of pocket.

You can also ask yourself:

How long has the program been around? 

Can I find online reviews (good and bad)? 

Is the program open about how fees are applied?

Can I talk to a real person to get answers about my concerns? How is their customer service?

If you can comfortably answer these questions, you may find yourself in very good hands!

What do I do first?

Canada is home to very few reputable vehicle donation programs, Donate a Car Canada being one of them. A quick phone call to the agency promising to process your car, truck, or van for donation is a safe first step! If they’re legitimate they will be able to provide clear answers about how they arrive at the numbers they are offering. Furthermore, you might want to actually visit the charity website that you wish to donate to: the option to donate a vehicle to them should be discoverable on their actual website.

Your phone calls and email queries are welcome here! Our experienced staff are in daily contact with agents from coast to coast. These folks know the industry well and can typically spot car donation scams a mile away. They also want to see your donation dollars maxed. Working on behalf of the charities our neighbors across Canada love? That’s ultimately what this is about. 

‘Got questions about our program, or our charities? Interested in going ahead with a donation? Call in to 1-877-250-4904, or click the big red button below…

The post Car Donation Scams | 5 Things to Keep in Mind When Donating Your Car Online appeared first on Donate A Car.

Saskatchewan company, K+S Potash Canada, puts people first

We first “met” K+S Potash in September of 2023. They arrived on the site with a single F-150 and a question: Would it be possible to donate several decomissioned company vehicles from their Bethune, Saskatchewan location? Eighteen (18!) trucks later and we can heartily say, Yes! It most certainly is possible.

The company asked themselves,

“What does it mean to be a good neighbour?”

And they came up with a robust answer: Being a good neighbor means considering others. 

They strive to be respectful, aware, and approachable. They aim to do the right thing, and to always keep in mind the full lifecycle of our projects. Being a good neighbour is a vital part of they are, helping them operate in Saskatchewan for years to come. 

They demonstrate their commitment to being a good neighbour through community involvement and environmental care. Building and maintaining meaningful relationships with local Indigenous Peoples and communities in the regions were K+S Potash Canada operates is key to this commitment, too.

Building Youth in Saskatchewan and British Columbia

You’ll want to visit the K+S Potash Canada Face Book page! But before you do, we just want to circle back to this company’s vehicle donation generosity.

After our first encounter with K+S and their Ford F-150 in September of 2023, the rolled into our program in a big way just two months later. That November they donated eight (8!) more trucks. One of the perks of vehicle donation here is that you can choose ANY Canadian charity to receive your gift. This company’s charity-of-choice? Diabetes Canada!

Flip the calendar forward to just a few weeks ago: In early October 2024 we received another ten (yes…10!) truck donations…for the same charity!

But back to youth in Saskatchewan and BC. If you visit the company’s Face Book page you’ll see that this kind of giving is nothing new for them. They have their own initiative called Youth+Us with an aim to “build a healthier happier future” for youth. They are committed to empowering the young people in our communities and create lasting, meaningful change. 

As of 2025, K+S Potash isn’t done giving yet!

We shouldn’t have been surprised, then, when this money-where-their-heart-is company rolled back on in with another multi-vehicle donation! Creating their own Christmas miracle, they started with a Dodge Ram. And ended with a Dodge Ram. And, just for good measure, included three more Dodge Rams in between. That’s right! They donated another five 5 company trucks.

Their chosen charity for 2025? The Moose Jaw and District Food Bank.

Inspired to extend a little neighbourly generosity of your own?

K+S Potash Canada is one company that has their community foot forward in Saskatchewan and BC. If you as an individual, or as a company representative, are inspired to follow their example, there are so many creative ways to do so!

For our part, we are at the ready to support you in vehicle donation. If you are donating more than one vehicle at a time you can even choose different charities for each one. The process is kept simple and quick. The tow (or tows) is/are always free. Furthermore, you, or your company, will receive a tax receipt issued to the registered vehicle owner.

How much is that tax receipt?

Donate A Car Canada has three possible sale procedures that maximize the donation outcome for our charities:

First, your vehicle may be selected for recycling. The donation amount for a scrap-ready vehicle is between $30.00 – $800.00. This is dependent on the area in which it is donated, and what the market will pay for the year/make/model. The amount that applies to you will always be clearly communicated and you will be given the option to cancel if you feel it does not reflect the value of your vehicle. And remember: the tow is always free!

Second, your vehicle may be considered for sale at auction, and several factors go into qualifying a vehicle for this. These include, but are not limited to, drivability, type of mechanical problems (if any), age, damage, visual appearance, and mileage.

Vehicles sold at auction are sold ‘as is’ and ‘unreserved’. They are sold to the highest bidder, as a full and final sale. Outcome at auction varies. As such, we cannot guarantee a specific sale result.

What if the vehicle isn’t quite scrap ready, but it’s running too rough for auction?

Our third option applies to vehicles that may not perform well at auction, but that are not ready for recycling. Our re-sale/recycle process will see our agent pick up your vehicle for free. Once they have it on their yard they will assess it to determine if it should be re-sold or recycled. This will be based on the current market. If they see re-sale value in your vehicle, they will advertise it to their own buyer base, selling it as-is, to the highest bidder. They will send us the net proceeds from the re-sale price. If they determine that they will not find interested buyers, they will recycle your car.

After the sale of your vehicle and our accounting process is complete, we will email stating the amount of your donation. You will then receive a tax receipt via CanadaHelps within one (1) week of the charity receiving your gift through us.

Our team of funny, friendly, efficient humans are on standy-by to work with you or your company on this! We have the experience and expertise to move things along in a hassle-free manner. And you’ll feel 100% good about it every step of the way. Not forgetting your chosen charity, of course! They will benefit most of all.

What comes next? Just fill in an online donation form, or give us a call at 1-877-250-4904. We can’t wait to work with you and your company!

The post Updated: Saskatchewan Company Donates Fleet — Again! appeared first on Donate A Car.

West Coast generosity

Jack (not his real name; all names are changed to protect donor confidentiality) wrote in to say, “My Honda has a scrape on the passenger side, but fairly minor. Otherwise there are spots where the paint is flaking, but does not affect running condition. It had a recent oil change, has been serviced regularly.” The mileage was moderate and it was clear the little white car was a great candidate for auction.

There was an extra layer of meaning to Jack’s generosity: he wished to donate to an environmental charity. The charity of choice? The David Suzuki Foundation. And, Wow! Did the DSF ever get a boost to their efforts!

Jack’s Honda was auctioned off in a charity vehicle auction for a gift of $11,855.92!

Every car counts

Not every donated vehicle can be re-sold. In fact, recycle-ready vehicles count for the majority of donations here at Donate a Car Canada. Generosity expressed through rusted out or broken down cars is no less impactful than the big sale outcomes. Every month, dozens of charities benefit from donors who care so much for the wellbeing of those organizations.

One such donor was Jim. He was engaged and excited about honouring his late wife through vehicle donation. When he reached out to donate her vehicle he noted, “My wife passed away two years ago and I know that donating her Jeep was what she wanted. The Odometer number is correct – 337,000! ‘Bertha’ was a beast and my wife could drive her through anything!!

Bertha still runs fine but like any old Jeep she leaks a bit of oil and her brakes are starting to go. Rusted front fender and door scratches and a cracked windshield, but there’s a recently new roof (soft top) and Goodyear Wrangler tires with a ton of mileage left. That being said, ol’ Bertha could be pirated for the above and a good mechanic would love to have a shot at her! 5 speed stick with 4 wheel drive option and heaven help anything that ever hit her solid steel fenders!! If recycled is the best (or only) option that’s fine. It’s where the funds would be going that’s important. My wife was a huge supporter of our military and first responders, particularly the issue many have with PTSD. I know that this is the right thing to honour her memory.“

Bertha was recycled for a donation to Jim’s wife-honouring charity of choice, Wounded Warriors Canada.

The business end of generosity

Sometimes business gets personal! Vehicle donations from Canadian businesses are a unique privilege to process. One Alberta construction crew donated their re-sale ready minivan for a $1,150.10 for the Alberta Cancer Foundation. The owner/donor wrote, “My experience with Donate a car Canada was positive. I would not hesitate to recommend your services. Thank you again for a great experience.”

A custom home builder donated a company truck for a local faith community. More recently, an elevator repair company’s Ford Fiesta raised a donation for the local food bank.

The post Generosity Car Donation Style appeared first on Donate A Car.

Giving Tuesday brings us together

“GivingTuesday is a global movement unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world.” How will you get involved on December 2, 2025?

So many ways to participate this December

Look no further for ways to share this Giving Tuesday! Donate a Car Canada processes donations for any Canadian charity! Each one will offer ways that you can help. Just as you. Where you are. Today!

Many of us are not in a position to give financially. No problem! The smallest acts of kindness bring meaningful relief. Your innate Goodness? It matters! Share it in the way that you are best able. A written note, or a pot of soup. An offer of childcare, or pet sitting. A simple, authentic smile.

‘Have your feet under you and feeling some financial freedom? Canadian charities will put your dollars and cents to excellent work. Caring, skilled men, women, and children are manning the wheel at our charities. What they need more than anything? The finances to keep things in motion. Your financial offering can make such a difference.

On the other hand, some charities will accept gifts-in-kind — that lightly used couch, coat, or pair of shoes will help!

Get Intentional

Give where you feel the love! CanadaHelps is a fabulous resource in selecting charities to support.

The cause that has most-helped you or your loved ones may be just the place to start this Giving Tuesday. If vulnerable pets or our remarkable Canadian wildlife tug at your heartstrings, give them a paw (or talon…or fin) up!

In giving creatively, you might even think about the impact your gift has on more than one level. Giving your lightly used household items, or a vehicle, means practical help to the recipient. That kind of giving does more! It reduces waste and is helpful environmentally. It clears your own space (possibly aiding in your own wellbeing). The benefits touch into your life, the life (lives) of your recipient, and the broader world.

Your Giving Tuesday

We’d love to see you this Giving Tuesday! Pick your charity and do up our quick donation form (it takes less than 10 minutes to fill out). Your charity not on our list? No problem! Just let us know and we’ll direct your gift to the cause you love! We’ll have you set up with your free tow and on your way to a tax receipt in short order!

That free tow will be managed efficiently, and with care. Typically, donated vehicles are picked up within 1 – 3 business days. You’ll be called in advance to ensure timing that suits you well.

The gift on top of the gift in all of this? Just as there is no cost to you, there is no cost to your charity of choice. We are here to ensure this full process is managed on behalf of yourself and your charity so that you can all keep doing what you need to do!

In anticipation of making a big difference together…

The post Giving Tuesday | Your Car, Your Charity of Choice! appeared first on Donate A Car.

Vehicle donors give BIG for Prostate Cancer

Our first shout out isn’t directly related to Movember, but it strikes right to the heart of this month’s cause! Have you had a chance to read, “A Man, A Mercedes, and A-wareness“? It’s one of hundreds of prized memories of prostate cancer vehicle donations.

Our Mercedes donor’s life was good, business was great and then – Boom. A scheduled trip to the doctor turned into a diagnosis of prostate cancer. The story grows from there.

No excuses | Mercedes donor knows about regular checks!

We all know that we should get our annual exams – female or male. Yet, so often we pass them off as unnecessary. No big deal! That’s where we can start to slide the slippery slope of irresponsibility, right? We would never choose that word for ourselves, but our donor has a message about exactly that.

The day he was diagnosed he’d almost blown off his dreaded annual appointment. He decided he’d better go. Frighteningly, he was sent for further testing. The doctor said it was probably nothing, but it needed to be checked. Again, his natural reaction was to slough it off and try to get out of it. He realized that he was using his busy-ness as an excuse, though. Furthermore, he knew it was a small price to pay in the form of his time, to ensure his future would be bright.

What a sucker punch to hear the ‘C’ word on the other side of the check up. The good news? Early detection meant his survival was pretty certain. Thankfully, that has proven to be the case!

In his words, it’s a stupid disease for a man to die from because it is very treatable if caught early. Men just don’t want to talk about it. It’s embarrassing and degrading so the misconceptions around it are perpetuated instead of being dealt with. Sure, the process can be harsh but the alternative isn’t pretty either.

Inspired by a scary diagnosis, he opted to make a difference for Prostate Cancer Canada

Our donor wanted to up the ante in awareness so men feel compelled to look after themselves. It’s important to him that they get their exams done.

So, he came up with a pretty stellar plan to do just that! His journey inspired him to make a substantial donation to help others in the same situation. His greatest goal, going forward, is to bring awareness about this disease, and to help others realize the importance of early detection.

One of the real life Mad Men

Ron Telpner can surely relate to our Mercedes donor. He shares his story on the Movember Foundation website,

I was one of the original mad men. You know, the infamous three martini lunches, all the toys you could possibly think of, fast cars, a cottage up north and traveling the world. Big clients with big wins. The kind of life many people might want.

But on September 7, 2010, none of that seemed to matter quite as much. I could tell by the way my doctor was looking at me when I went in to get my test results. I was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Ron goes on to say,

You can’t re-write the script 

When I think about my years in advertising, the anguish I felt when I’d lose a big client and think, “Oh my god, it’s the end of the world.” But it wasn’t. I’d wake up and I was good and I was still getting dressed up for work and I’d find another client. Life is like that. But cancer is different. You can’t rewrite the script. You can’t go back or change course and not have the cancer. I still face health challenges but make every day a good one. So my journey now is this. My journey is to be the same person I’ve always been, with dignity, and now to help others through this journey. I think what cancer has done for me, is to allow me to be myself but only better.

Your moustache makes a difference

(Movember Foundation, Ron Telpner: I Survived Prostate Cancer)

Prostate Cancer Canada, the London Health Sciences Centre,  and Kids Help Phone are some of Movember Canada’s partnering organizations and all three routinely receive gifts through our vehicle donation program.

If this is a cause that is meaningful to you, consider donating to the above, or to the Canadian Cancer Society, Alberta Cancer Foundation, Kids Cancer Care, or CancerCare Manitoba! 

Incidentally, the successful auction sale of the Mercedes drew a donation of over$27,000.00 for Prostate Cancer Canada! Every vehicle counts when you donate for the cause you care about and we can’t wait to work with you for the charity you love.

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