Many of us strive to make a difference in our communities, and workplace giving is an excellent way to channel that motivation into tangible support for causes we care about. By donating your vehicle to Ride Forward, you can contribute to a brighter future in Austin while leveraging your employer’s matching-gift program to maximize your impact. It’s a win-win!
The mechanics of this process are straightforward. When you donate your vehicle, you will receive a 1098-C tax form that documents your contribution. By submitting this form through your employer’s matching-gift platform, along with the charity’s name and EIN, you can request a match for your donation, effectively doubling—or even tripling—your contribution to Ride Forward.
How to activate this channel
Donate Your Vehicle
Start by donating your vehicle to Ride Forward, a qualified 501(c)(3) charity. Ensure all paperwork is completed correctly to receive your IRS 1098-C form.
Receive Your 1098-C
After your donation is processed, you will receive a 1098-C form. This document serves as proof of your charitable contribution and is essential for the next steps.
Access Your Employer’s Platform
Log into your employer's matching-gift program platform, such as Benevity, YourCause, or Bright Funds, to initiate the matching-gift request process.
Submit Your Matching-Gift Request
Complete the required fields, including your 1098-C receipt, the name of Ride Forward, and its EIN. This request notifies your employer of your charitable action.
Employer Verification
Your employer will verify the donation details. Once confirmed, they will process the matching funds, typically taking 30-90 days to disburse directly to Ride Forward.
×Impact multiplier
When you donate a vehicle valued at $1,500, the potential impact can double with your employer's matching-gift program, resulting in a total contribution of $3,000 to Ride Forward. Some employers even offer enhanced matching rates of 2:1 or 3:1 for specific causes, further amplifying your donation’s effect. Additionally, board members and executives may enjoy higher match caps, allowing their contributions to create even greater change within our community.
Common employer platforms + programs
- Benevity
- YourCause
- Bright Funds
- Cybergrants
- Double the Donation
- Charity Navigator
How to check eligibility
To determine if your employer participates in a matching-gift program, check your employee benefits portal or contact your HR department directly. Typically, eligible employees must be full-time and may need to meet certain thresholds for the charitable donation to qualify. Familiarize yourself with your company's matching-gift policy for the best chance to maximize your impact.
Austin workplace-giving context
Austin is home to several Fortune 500 companies and is a hub for major corporations in tech, healthcare, and finance. Local organizations like the United Way of Greater Austin also support workplace-giving initiatives, helping to connect employees with charitable opportunities. By participating in workplace giving, you join a growing trend in Texas where community engagement and corporate responsibility thrive together.