PROGRAMS
Removing Barriers & Empowering People
How to Become a Client
All ChangingGears® clients must first register with our partner organization, CityLink Center. CityLink provides clients with employment training and wrap-around services to reach prosperity. Each client works with a Service Coordinator to discuss goals and services needed along the way.
ChangingGears® sell restored cars to approved CityLink clients so they can feel equipped as they work their way out of poverty. To be eligible to purchase a car, every client must meet the following requirements:
Completely Supported
A car alone is not enough, which is why our clients are required to engage at CityLink Center so they have access to the holistic support services necessary for sustainable life change.
Financially Ready
Our clients are required to complete financial counseling with our partner, SmartMoney, so they have the income and budgeting skills necessary to handle all of the expenses of owning a car.
Equipped for Success
To get clients ready for the road, clients are required to attend workshops on car ownership and maintenance and to volunteer at ChangingGears for 10 hours to build up “sweat equity.”
Licensed to Drive
Every client must meet the legal requirements of driving and owning a car, including a valid driver’s license and the necessary insurance coverage.
Vehicle Programs
Repair
For clients who have a car that needs repair.
Bridge
For clients who need a car to get to their new job.
Purchase
For clients who are working and have some money saved to purchase a car.
Other Programs
Career Training
For CityLink clients seeking a career as an Automotive Technician
Repair Program
For clients who have a car that needs repairs.
Includes a free bumper to bumper vehicle assessment
Repairs cost about half of what a typical repair shop would charge for the same repair
Service is performed by a certified ASE Master Technician
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For approved clients referred from a partner organization
Does not include engines or transmission replacement
Does not include body work
Bridge Program
For clients who need a car to get to their new job.
Gives clients the opportunity for car ownership with no upfront costs
Cars sold at half of retail value with a no interest loan
$175 monthly payments that start two months from when clients get their car
Clients have access to the Repair Program
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Graduate from an Industry Training Program at CityLink Center.
Accept a full-time job offer for at least $17/hour
Valid driver's license
Full coverage car insurance is required until the loan is paid off. Cost of the first month of insurance can be included in the car loan.
Purchase Program
For clients who are working and have some money saved to purchase a car.
In the Purchase Program donated cars are sold at half retail value with a no-interest loan.
Clients must be working at least 30 days, making at least $1,200/month from their job
Valid driver’s license
Smart Money classes & 1:1 financial counseling
Vehicle Ownership & Vehicle Maintenance workshops
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Working for at least 60 days
Valid driver’s license
Smart Money classes & 1:1 financial counseling
Vehicle Ownership & Vehicle Maintenance workshops
Minimum 20% down with sales tax, title, and registration fees due when you get the keys
Full coverage car insurance is required until the loan is paid off
Purchase Program
For clients who are working and have some money saved to purchase a car.
Donated cars are restored and sold to approved clients
Cars sold at half of retail value with a no interest loan
Loan length typically 12-18 months
Clients have access to the Repair Program
Automotive Technician Training Program
Free 4-week training in collaboration with CityLink
Hands on training with ChangingGears® ASE Master Technicians enables students to master the basics of oil changes and tire repair & replacement
Connections to local employers for shadowing experiences and job opportunities
Includes soft skills training and supporting services from CityLink Center