We Drive Change.

Helping Justice-Impacted

San Diegans Build a Second Chance at Success.

Our training program equips participants with in-demand skills, ASE certifications, and real-world experience, creating stronger futures for individuals and a stronger community for us all.
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Mechanic wearing safety glasses and a cap working on the rear wheel area of a white vehicle using a tool.
80% ASE Certification Pass Rate
VFCSD graduates complete rigorous hands-on training and pass industry-standard ASE Entry-Level exams at an exceptional rate.
Improved Employment Retention
Our graduates don't just get hired — they stay, helping employers reduce turnover and build stronger teams.
Every Graduate Strengthens the Community
When people get steady jobs, everyone benefits, the economy grows, and neighborhoods become safer.
Reduce Recidivism Through Employment
Stable employment after incarceration drastically lowers the likelihood of reoffending, creating safer, stronger communities.

Our Mision

Vehicles For Change-San Diego empowers justice-impacted individuals to achieve economic independence through technical training and professional support.
Three men wearing protective glasses and black shirts working together on a mechanical task in a workshop.

Our Mision

Vehicles For Change-San Diego empowers justice-impacted individuals to achieve economic independence through technical training and professional support.

Get Involved

For Employers
Find Qualified, Dedicated Automotive Technicians
Employers across San Diego trust Vehicles for Change to deliver skilled, certified automotive technicians—while helping justice-impacted individuals rebuild their lives.
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Partner With Us
Community & Corporate Partners

Our partners range from local businesses to national foundations, all united by the desire to create sustainable, life-changing opportunities. Align your brand with a proven workforce development solution and showcase your commitment to social impact.
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Support Our Mission
Donate to Make An Impact In Our Community
Every dollar fuels our trainees’ journey—covering transportation, housing referrals, weekly stipends, case management, financial literacy training, and access to essential resources. Your gift goes beyond charity; it empowers people to build stable futures and reduces recidivism in our community.
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Affordable Car Services
Service Your Vehicle, Support Our Trainees
Get professional-quality repairs at reduced rates in our teaching garage—where every service supports hands-on learning for trainees. Save money while making an impact in your community.
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CHANGE STARTS WITH YOU
Group of sixteen diverse people wearing matching black shirts with Vehicles for Change logos standing inside a workshop or garage.

Who We Are

At Vehicles for Change San Diego (VFCSD), we don’t just train aspiring automotive technicians—we transform lives, strengthen businesses, and revitalize communities. Our accelerated, hands-on program equips justice-involved trainees with the certifications and soft skills they need to thrive in the automotive industry. Whether you're an employer seeking talent, a sponsor looking to make an impact, a donor investing in second chances, a trainee pursuing a new career, or a local driver in need of affordable service—VFCSD drives positive change for everyone.

Success Stories

Meet Stephanie

“With the support of Vehicles For Change – San Diego, a transformative program, I started to rebuild my life. Through this journey, I discovered the value of structure and dependability, and I learned the essential skills to overcome obstacles.” ​

Meet Phillip

"Hard times led me to choices I regret, but with VFCSD’s support, I’ve rebuilt my life and found hope in a fresh start"

Meet Ethan

“Putting VFCSD on my resume helped a lot. I’ve applied for jobs before and didn’t have any past experience, so they weren’t getting back to me right away.”

Support Us

Donate
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Fuel our programs directly—your gift helps cover tools, training, transportation, and support services.
Donate Today
Donate a Vehicle
White car front icon inside a red circle.
Turn your old car into new opportunities. Vehicle donations fund hands-on training and program expansion.
Donate Today
Become a
Corporate Sponsor
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Employers across San Diego trust Vehicles for Change to deliver skilled, certified automotive technicians—while helping justice-involved individuals rebuild their lives.
Get Involved Today

Follow us on Social Media

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Group of diverse adults posing inside a warehouse, some holding blue certificates, with a man in a suit in the center.
Two men working on the suspension and brake area of a black car lifted in a garage.
Two people using a machine to balance a car tire mounted on a rim in a garage.
Seven people standing indoors holding gray Craftsman toolkits, some raised above their heads, smiling and posing behind a black-covered table.
Group of seven people standing indoors holding certificates under a large congratulatory banner that reads 'CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!' with Vehicles for Change San Diego logo in bottom right.
Three smiling staff members standing in front of a San Diego Blood Bank vehicle outside the donor entrance with large red text saying THANK YOU!
Industrial building with concrete steps, rocky landscaping, and text overlay saying 'Our new facility is open!' against a blue sky.
Smiling man wearing a black San Diego Padres cap and black hoodie with text 'SAN DIEGO NATIVE', with text 'Meet Ethan' and Vehicles for Change San Diego logo.
Close-up of hands working on a car engine with overlay text promoting a free automotive mechanic training program by Vehicles for Change San Diego.

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