Turn Your Car Into a Vehicle for Change!

Turn Your Car Into a Vehicle for Change!

Alabama Public Television Encourages Vehicle Donations to Support Educational Programming

In a world of constant noise and fleeting entertainment, Alabama Public Television (APT) continues to stand as a trusted source of unbiased news, quality educational content, and cultural programming for people of all ages. In 2025, as part of its mission to expand community support and reach more viewers across the state, APT is encouraging Alabama residents to donate their vehicles—turning old cars, trucks, and RVs into lasting investments in education.

Through a convenient, tax-deductible vehicle donation program, your unused car can become a powerful tool for change, helping APT fund the very shows and resources that educate, inspire, and inform millions of Alabamians.

1. Why Vehicle Donation Matters in 2025

With inflation squeezing family budgets and car ownership costs rising, many households are looking for smart ways to clear space, cut expenses, or upgrade to more efficient transportation. That’s where APT’s vehicle donation program comes in.

What’s Changed?

  • The average vehicle lifespan is now over 12 years, but many cars become inefficient or costly long before that.

  • Vehicle trade-in values are dropping as EV adoption rises, especially for older gas-powered models.

  • Meanwhile, nonprofits like APT face funding cuts from traditional sources, increasing the need for community-driven support.

Donating your car to Alabama Public Television allows you to repurpose something you no longer need into something that truly matters.

2. About the APT Vehicle Donation Program

APT’s vehicle donation program is managed in partnership with a nationally recognized nonprofit vehicle donation processor. The process is simple, secure, and rewarding—and it only takes a few minutes to get started.

Here’s How It Works:

  1. Visit APT’s official donation portal or call the dedicated hotline.

  2. Provide basic vehicle info (make, model, VIN, location).

  3. Schedule a free pickup at a time that works for you.

  4. Receive a tax-deductible receipt once the vehicle is sold or repurposed.

Most vehicle types are accepted, including:

  • Cars

  • Trucks

  • SUVs

  • RVs

  • Motorcycles

  • Boats (in some cases)

Even vehicles that no longer run can often be accepted, as long as they have a transferable title.

3. What Your Car Donation Supports

When you donate a vehicle to APT, you’re helping fund programs and services that have an enormous impact on education and public discourse across Alabama.

Key Areas Your Donation Supports:

Educational Children’s Programming

APT is home to award-winning, curriculum-aligned programs like:

  • Sesame Street

  • Arthur

  • Wild Kratts

  • Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood

These shows promote literacy, social skills, and STEM education for Alabama’s youngest learners, especially in low-income or rural areas where quality preschool access is limited.

Adult Learning & GED Preparation

APT offers lifelong learning content and GED prep resources to adults seeking better job opportunities or second chances through education.

Teacher Resources and Professional Development

Through initiatives like APT Create & Learn, the network provides:

  • Free lesson plans

  • Professional development workshops

  • Classroom content aligned with state standards

Local Programming and Journalism

From Capitol Journal to local documentaries and public affairs specials, APT serves as a watchdog and storyteller for Alabama, bringing transparency and civic awareness to the forefront.

4. Tax Benefits for You in 2025

In addition to supporting educational programming, donating your car to APT also comes with generous tax benefits under current IRS regulations.

Key Tax Perks:

  • Deduct the full sale price of your donated vehicle (if sold by APT or its partners).

  • If your vehicle is used by APT or sold for less than $500, you can deduct the fair market value, up to $500 without needing additional paperwork.

  • No capital gains tax if your vehicle has appreciated in value.

  • Fast delivery of IRS Form 1098-C, required for claiming the deduction.

Whether you’re preparing for the 2025 tax season or looking ahead to 2026, this is an easy way to gain financial benefits while giving back.

5. Environmental Benefits: Clean Your Garage, Clean the Air

Older, less efficient vehicles contribute significantly to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and fuel waste. Donating your car is not only good for your wallet and community—it’s good for the planet.

Here’s What Happens Environmentally:

  • Usable vehicles are resold and rehomed, reducing the need for new manufacturing.

  • Non-running vehicles are responsibly dismantled, with usable parts and materials recycled.

  • Fluids, metals, and hazardous materials are disposed of following EPA-certified standards.

In this way, APT’s vehicle donation program promotes responsible recycling and sustainable fundraising—a win-win for donors and the environment.

6. Who Has Donated? Real Stories from Alabama Viewers

John and Lisa from Huntsville

“We had a 2008 Toyota Highlander just sitting in our driveway after buying an EV. Selling it was more trouble than it was worth, but donating to APT was simple and meaningful. Knowing it went to support the shows our kids grew up with made it feel special.”

Marie in Montgomery

“As a retired teacher, I’ve always supported APT. I donated my old Buick when I moved to a retirement community. I got a great tax deduction and loved that it helped fund educational content for today’s students.”

7. Alabama Public Television: A Legacy Worth Supporting

Founded in 1955 as the nation’s first statewide educational television network, APT has grown to serve millions of Alabamians annually through broadcast and digital channels. In a time when misinformation and media distrust are rampant, APT remains a trusted public institution.

Core Pillars of APT’s Mission:

  • Education for all ages

  • Cultural enrichment through arts, history, and local storytelling

  • Civic engagement via public affairs and unbiased journalism

  • Accessibility, reaching rural and underserved populations

By donating your car, you’re not just clearing space or claiming a deduction—you’re joining a legacy of public service and educational excellence.

8. How to Donate Your Vehicle to APT Today

Ready to turn your old car into a vehicle for change? Here’s how to get started.

3 Easy Steps:

  1. Visit APT’s donation site or call the toll-free number provided on their website.

  2. Fill out the donation form with your vehicle’s information.

  3. Schedule your free pickup, usually within 24–72 hours.

You’ll receive a confirmation email, a pickup receipt, and a tax deduction form once your car is sold or repurposed.

9. What Types of Vehicles Are Accepted?

APT accepts a wide variety of vehicles in most conditions, including:

  • Cars (running or not)

  • Trucks

  • Vans

  • SUVs

  • Boats (with trailer)

  • Motorcycles

  • Recreational vehicles (RVs)

All donations must have a clean, transferable title. APT’s donation partner handles DMV paperwork and liability transfer, so you don’t have to worry about forms or registration hassles.

10. Final Thoughts: Drive Education Forward

In today’s rapidly changing world, few investments are as enduring as education. By donating your vehicle to Alabama Public Television, you’re doing more than supporting a good cause—you’re investing in the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders.

Your old car can help:

  • Air trusted children’s programming to rural homes.

  • Provide teachers with tools to succeed in the classroom.

  • Fund in-depth reporting that holds power accountable.

  • Support lifelong learning for adults seeking a better future.

Don’t let your unused vehicle collect dust—let it power something meaningful.