Donated cars change lives through local ministry
At Wheels Knoxville, a car ministry, “we take donated cars, repair them into a reliable gift to someone in critical need of transportation,” said Farragut resident Alan Knauth, who operates Wheels with his wife Natalie Knauth and founder Steve Bowman.
“Wheels Knoxville is an all volunteer, 501(C)(3) non-profit that takes donated cars from community members, repairs them to become reliable, safe transportation and then regifts them to individuals in critical need of transportation in the Knoxville area, Natalie said. “Wheels Knoxville could not do what it does without our donor families.
“We have gifted 12 cars so far in 2026, and earlier this year we gifted our 100th car,” she said.
Bowman founded the organization in 2017. He helped fix an old car then found out about a young man who needed a car, which spurred the ministry, Alan said.
“We got involved in 2023,” Alan added. “I bought a new truck, and [working on cars] was something I was always interested in.”
Then, Wheels became a non-profit in 2025. So far this year, they gave away 11 cars with seven more in their possession.
“Last year, we had 14 cars (given away),” Natalie added.
Wheels receives referrals from organizations, such as Susannah’s House, Safe Families, Knox County Head Start, Iv’s Place, organizations for homelessness and others.
“We don’t take self-referrals,” Natalie said. “Before they get a car, they have to sign a statement that they have a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.
“They have to be able to pay for the title and registration costs,” she added. “It costs $80 just to transfer the title.”
One person who received a car wrote a letter to the Knauths: “I am writing this with a a full heart to thank you for this incredible gift.
“This car is such as blessing for me and my son,” the recipient stated. “Because of you, I can now accept a better job. Most importantly, I will be able to take my son to his therapy sessions and back to the park and give him the things he deserves.”
Another lady who received a car was able to get a nursing job and went on her way to earn a CNA, Natalie recalled.
Alan said there are grandparents raising grandchildren and single mothers who are finding themselves in need of a car.
To learn more about the organization, visit online at drivinghope.tn
Cars that cannot be repaired can be sold to raise money to buy more cars, Alan said.
“These are not fancy cars [Wheels gives], but they are reliable,” he added. “We have a mechanic go from bumper to bumper to inspect then repair them.
“We’ve paid up to $984 to get a car up and running.”
