Tuning Up Lives INTRO: Dependable transportation can mean the difference between keeping a job and losing an income. But purchasing a car is not a reality for many working families. Heidi Robinson tells us about some dedicated volunteers who turn donated cars into vehicles for changing lives. SCRIPT: (Locator: Augusta, Ga.) This 1990 Volvo Sedan has had a makeover…new tires, a new exhaust manifold, and new brakes. Woody Rogers/Volunteer Mechanic: “They should be good for another 30 or 40,000 miles, hopefully.” Woody Rogers’ is part of a men’s group from Wesley United Methodist Church in Augusta, Georgia that donates cars to those in need. Woody Rogers/Volunteer Mechanic: “That part is done.” Someone else will soon be behind the wheel – a single father who was homeless. Having a car means he can keep working. Woody Rogers/Volunteer Mechanic: “Sometimes you don’t want to take your time off and your days off to work on a car, or after work, but that’s the thing that keeps us going.” Across town, Robert Rich is hoping this is the last time he or his children will have to wait for a ride.
Robert Rich/Car Recipient: “You’re constantly asking yourself, ‘Am I going to able to get to work today?’ or ‘Are me and the kids going to have to walk in the rain to the babysitter’s house? Or to school?’” Rich says receiving this car may be the key to getting his life in gear. Robert Rich/Car Recipient: “Honestly, these are the first people who have ever looked at me and seen I am trying as hard as I can.” Smitty’s Auto Shop donates labor, and often gives parts at cost. The pay-off is seeing the impact. Chuck Smith/Owner, Smitty’s Auto Service: “When you see somebody that receives a vehicle that’s walking, it is one of the most humbling things you can ever see because they really appreciate it.” Nat/Man greets recipient: “You Robert? Yes, sir. I’m Scott Long. Nice to meet you, man.” The paperwork makes it official… Nat: “You know what a title is… this is ownership…this car belongs to you.” Robert Rich opens the door to a new future. Robert Rich/Car Recipient: “It kinda feels like a dream.” TAG: This Volvo was the 110th car this group has repaired and made road-ready. And proving that sometimes good things happen in pairs…the same day Robert Rich received his Volvo, his boss pulled him aside and gave Robert a raise. For more information about the Mechanics Ministry, contact Scott Long from Wesley United Methodist Church in Augusta at 706-868-6063 or go to their Web site.
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