When she walked through the doors of CityLink Center, Rachel was searching for a career path and transportation. She lived with her mom, seven children, and fiance who had a terminal health diagnosis. Her hands were full, but she knew something needed to change.
When Abdoulaye applied for the ChangingGears Automotive Technician Training Program, he had no idea the new career would lead to a 33% pay increase and immeasurable impact to his personal life.
“I am a living example of their mission to empower people who are working toward prosperity,” Guy shared with the audience at ChangingGears Grand Opening in April 2022. Guy, who received a car from ChangingGears five years ago, came back to inspire others with his story.
“God doesn’t just give things to us, he uses people to help,” Marnie Bokelman shared with the audience at the ChangingGears Grand Opening on April 7, 2022. “We are so grateful to all of our clients, volunteers, staff members, donors and business partners for sacrificing their time, sharing their resources, and donating money and vehicles to help fuel ChangingGears.”
“The ChangingGears Automotive Technician Training was really impactful for me in starting my career,” Aaron shared. “Getting to do so much hands-on learning is great, because that’s how I prefer to learn.
When Jordan’s car broke down in December 2021, she was devastated. She had it assessed at a traditional car shop but didn’t have $900 on hand to fix the clutch.
“There are always going to be barriers. You’ll always get discouraged because it’s human of us to be discouraged. But don’t give up,” Rebecca says as she tells her story.
“I was at the lowest point in my life when I came to ChangingGears; it saved me.” Cathi tears up as she recalls the difficult years she experienced following the loss of her job.
Fifteen hours. That’s the amount of additional free time Gerald now has each week because, “I got the car I wanted,” he says with a huge smile on his face.
Two years ago Guy and his wife were working, raising their family, and driving two cars. He was 20 years into a career in private policing and working on a master’s degree when he lost his job and couldn’t find another.
