At Gear Up Giving, we believe in the power of giving vehicles a second life, and we accept nearly anything that can drive or roll. Whether your car has seen better days, your motorcycle is gathering dust, or you have a boat that needs a new home, we’re here to help. Our donation process is simple, and every vehicle makes a difference. Your generous contribution helps fund essential benefits-research services for local residents in need. Join us in making our Chicago community stronger by donating any vehicle, running or not!
Categories we accept
Donated cars and sedans often go to auction, providing a straightforward sale for funding initiatives. Those that aren't drivable can be sold for parts or recycled, ensuring maximum benefit for our community.
Chicago's bustling neighborhoods are filled with cars, and even the not-so-great ones can help support local residents in need.
Pickup trucks that are donated tend to fetch good prices at auction, given their utility. If they’re not in running condition, they can still be broken down for valuable parts or materials.
Many Chicagoans rely on pickups for work and recreation, so even an older model can find a new purpose through our program.
SUVs and crossovers often go directly to auction where demand remains high. If they are damaged or not running, they are typically salvaged for parts, ensuring every vehicle contributes to our mission.
SUVs are popular in Chicago for both family outings and city driving, making them valuable donations for our community's needs.
Donated motorcycles can be auctioned off or restored, depending on their condition. Even in poor shape, they can often be broken down for parts, generating funding.
Chicagoans love cruising on two wheels during warmer months, making motorcycle donations a unique and impactful way to help local residents.
RVs and campers can draw interest at auction for those looking to travel. If they are non-running, they are often recycled or dismantled for parts.
With many families hitting the road from Chicago, RVs and campers can become valuable resources for funding local support services.
Boats can either be auctioned to eager buyers or salvaged for materials. Regardless of their condition, your donation is crucial for funding vital local programs.
Chicagoans enjoy lakeside activities, and your boat could help turn the tide for those needing assistance in the community.
Commercial vehicles often have high resale value at auction. Those that aren’t running may need to be broken down for parts or recycled, ensuring every donation helps.
With many local businesses in Chicago, commercial vehicles can serve as a lifeline for funding essential community programs.
Even non-running vehicles can be beneficial; they are often sold for parts or recycled, allowing us to maximize funds from each donation.
Every car on the streets of Chicago has a story, but even the non-running ones can help share that story by supporting local residents in need.
Condition guide
When considering a vehicle donation, it’s essential to understand the conditions that qualify for a successful donation. Running vehicles, of course, can be sold at auction or utilized in other ways to benefit our programs. Non-running vehicles are still accepted, as they can be repurposed for parts or recycled, providing valuable resources for our community initiatives. Don’t hesitate to donate a vehicle that has some wear and tear!
Vehicles with salvage titles can also qualify, but be aware that this might limit potential auction value. We encourage donors to reach out about reconstructed or rebuilt titles as well, as they can sometimes still be accepted. Even if a lienholder is present, we can evaluate your vehicle on a case-by-case basis to determine the next steps.
Title status
| Title status | Accepted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| clean title | yes | A clean title makes the donation process straightforward, allowing us to quickly utilize the vehicle for community aid. |
| salvage | with restrictions | Salvage titles are accepted but may require specific conditions that we can discuss with you during the donation process. |
| rebuilt/reconstructed | case-by-case | Rebuilt or reconstructed titles need further evaluation to understand the vehicle's condition and potential donation options. |
| lienholder present | case-by-case | Vehicles with a lien need to be carefully reviewed to ensure all obligations are satisfied before they can be donated. |
| missing title | case-by-case | If you have a missing title, we encourage you to reach out, as we may still be able to assist with the donation process. |
Pickup considerations
When it comes to picking up vehicles, Gear Up Giving is here to help—no matter your situation. If your vehicle is immobile, we can arrange for convenient pickup, whether you're stationed at an apartment building in Chicago, a rural property, or even a marina. Our team understands city logistics and will work with you to find the best solution. Simply provide us with your location, and we’ll handle the details to make your donation process as smooth as possible.