The moment is electric as the garage door glides open, revealing a group of enthusiastic high school students ready to unveil a beautifully refurbished car, adorned with a big red bow, for a deserving single mother.
This heartwarming tradition has been a highlight at Louisa County High School in Mineral, Virginia, for the past eight years. Each year, the automotive technology class hosts 4-5 of these special ceremonies, where they repair donated vehicles and present them to single moms in need of reliable transportation.
“The entire experience is incredibly rewarding,” shared 16-year-old Holden Pekary. He fondly recalls the moment they gifted a car to a single mom holding her baby, which made their hard work feel profoundly impactful. “It gives you more of a purpose,” he added, highlighting the meaningful connection between their efforts and the real-world difference they make.
Every semester, around 20 students engage in this hands-on project, guided by their dedicated teacher, Shane Robertson. Located about an hour northwest of Richmond, the program teaches essential skills such as brake and tire repairs, fluid changes, battery testing, and heating and cooling system maintenance.
Robertson emphasized the importance of this experience, stating, “They get the real-life grit behind why they are really doing a task. This is somebody’s real car, and you’re genuinely making a change in the world.”
This inspiring program began in collaboration with the nonprofit organization Giving Words, which aims to support single parents through vehicle donations and repairs. The founders, Eddie Brown and his wife, both experienced the challenges of single parenthood and transportation issues before launching this impactful initiative.
“To date, we’ve given away over 60 cars and repaired more than 260,” Brown reported, showcasing the tremendous impact of their work.
The spirit of generosity resonates throughout the community, extending beyond the walls of Louisa County High School. Giving Words also partners with individual vehicle owners and local repair shops to help gather more donated cars, amplifying their efforts to support those in need.
One remarkable success story involved a 2007 gold Toyota Prius gifted to Jessica Rader, a single mother of three who has conquered addiction. Prior to receiving this vehicle, Jessica relied on friends and family for rides to various appointments and activities essential to her motherhood. Now, with her newfound independence and reliable transportation, she has transitioned from a part-time job to full-time employment, ensuring she can meet the demands of her busy life.
As the garage door at Louisa High School lifted once more, and Pekary along with his classmates erupted in applause, it was clear that this moment was about so much more than just a refurbished Prius. It symbolized a helping hand reaching out to those in need, and the profound connections formed through acts of kindness.
