When a reliable vehicle is a privilege, many families in Bismarck and surrounding communities feel the strain. Fix It Forward, an auto repair shop based in the Fargo‑Moorhead area, operates a nonprofit program that removes that barrier by repairing used cars and donating them to people who lack transportation.
Mission and impact
“Our mission is to repair used vehicles and donate them to people in need,” said Travis Hopkins, Outreach Coordinator for Fix It Forward. To date the organization has repaired more than 1,500 vehicles and completed 758 vehicle donations. Each donated car opens doors to steady employment, school attendance and everyday errands for families who would otherwise be stuck.
Local support from Bismarck creators
Local content creator and influencer Brandi Masterud was inspired by the program’s work. She participated in the “Park It For a Purpose” fundraiser, during which participants surrender their car keys for a day or up to five days to experience life without a vehicle. “It puts you in the life of what many people struggle with without transportation,” Masterud explained.
Motivated to do more, Masterud set a personal fundraising goal of $5,000 for Fix It Forward. “It can be hard to ask even when it’s for a good cause. It’s hard to ask for money,” she admitted.
Business community steps in
Jesse Peterson, President and CEO of the Eide car dealerships, saw Masterud’s effort and offered a substantial contribution. “So, we wrote a check for $3,500,” Peterson said. The donation enabled the nonprofit to acquire additional vehicles for the Bismarck‑Mandan area and sparked a conversation about expanding the program locally.
Why transportation matters
For residents facing transportation challenges, a working vehicle is more than a convenience—it can be the key to reliable employment, consistent school attendance for children, and the ability to attend medical appointments or church services. By reducing the transportation gap, Fix It Forward supports the traditional family unit and strengthens the community’s economic foundation.
How to get involved
Fix It Forward welcomes volunteers, donations of parts or tools, and financial contributions. Those interested in learning more about the program or donating a vehicle can visit the organization’s website. Community members are also encouraged to support future fundraisers like “Park It For a Purpose,” which raise both awareness and critical resources for families in need.
As the program looks to expand its reach into Bismarck, local leaders and faith‑based groups are invited to partner in the effort, reinforcing the shared values of service, family stability, and individual liberty that define our community.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
