In an innovative initiative, a local non-profit organization in Omaha is highlighting the challenges faced by those without reliable transportation. Over the next eight weeks, various community leaders will temporarily give up their vehicles to experience firsthand the difficulties of navigating daily life without a car. This campaign aims to raise funds and awareness for Chariots 4 Hope, a non-profit that connects individuals in need with dependable transportation solutions. By immersing themselves in this experience, these advocates hope to foster empathy and inspire action within the community.

Chariots 4 Hope has been operating in Omaha for over a decade, transforming countless lives by providing vehicles to those who need them most. One such beneficiary is Sarah, a mother of two young boys, who turned her life around after moving from a Kansas Indian reservation three years ago. She now works as a family support worker at the Open Door Mission and was recently gifted a used Mazda CX5 by Chariots 4 Hope. Her story exemplifies the profound impact that access to reliable transportation can have on personal and professional growth.

The journey of Sarah and others like her underscores the importance of initiatives like Journey 2 Freedom. Participants in this program, including business owners and community leaders, are giving up their cars for a week to better understand the struggles faced by those without reliable transportation. Van Deeb, owner of Prime Home Realty and sponsor of the May fundraiser, shared his experiences of relying on friends for rides during his week without a car. He emphasized how challenging it can be to maintain employment when public transport options are limited or unreliable.

Guiding Grace, another non-profit organization led by Gina Tomes, serves families living below the poverty line. Tomes highlighted that 72% of their clients lack reliable transportation, making it nearly impossible for them to attend job interviews, medical appointments, or even take their children to school. The collaboration between Guiding Grace and Chariots 4 Hope aims to address this critical issue by connecting eligible individuals with much-needed vehicles. However, the demand far exceeds the supply, with over two dozen people currently waiting for a suitable vehicle.

Through events like Feel The Freedom, held annually at Peter Fink’s private muscle car museum, Chariots 4 Hope continues to build momentum and gather support. These fundraisers not only provide financial resources but also bring together a community committed to making a difference. As Michelle Hurt, co-founder of Chariots 4 Hope, aptly put it, "This mission is part of someone's comeback story." The organization's efforts serve as a testament to the power of compassion and collective action in empowering individuals and strengthening communities.