Applications for our 2022 Accessible Vehicle Fund program will open on January 3, 2022 at jettfoundation.org/jett-giving-fund. Below are some frequently asked questions regarding the application process, eligibility requirements, and more. You can also check out our webinar recording, Navigating the Accessible Vehicle Fund Process, if you missed our live presentation from December 7.
Jett Giving Fund – Accessible Vehicle Fund FAQs
Q. What is the Accessible Vehicle Fund?
A. The Accessible Vehicle Fund is a branch of Jett Foundation’s Jett Giving Fund (JGF), a financial support program for families in the Duchenne community. Applicants accepted into the Accessible Vehicles Fund program aim to raise half the amount needed, or more, to purchase their requested vehicle. Once their fundraising goal is reached, Jett Foundation purchases the vehicle directly from the vendor and gifts it to the recipient outright.
Q. Who is eligible for the Accessible Vehicle Fund?
A. Individuals or families affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy residing in the United States are eligible to apply to the Accessible Vehicle Fund.
Q. What type of assistance does the Accessible Vehicle Fund cover?
A: The Accessible Vehicle Fund can ONLY support the purchase of accessibility vehicles, van conversions, and hand controls for disabled drivers. The program cannot help with monthly vehicle payments, replacement parts or repairs to a vehicle that has already been purchased.
Q. When do Accessible Vehicle Fund applications open?
A: Applications will be available online on January 3, 2022 at 9:00 AM ET and close on February 18, 2022 at 11:59 PM ET.
Q. How do I apply?
A. Visit jettfoundation.org/jett-giving-fund during the open application period to complete the application. Note: you are able to save and resume your application.
Q. What documentation do I need to apply?
A. For your application to be considered complete, you must answer all of the questions on the application, and submit the following with your application:
- Proof of diagnosis (physician’s letter, IEP, genetic report, etc.);
- Personal information is required, and a detailed background narrative is very important to clearly demonstrate the need for financial assistance.
- Three quotes from three separate certified dealership/ vendors on company letterhead. The invoice should list the make, model, year, and the price of the equipment, the salesperson and their contact information, and your name and address. Jett Foundation will review the three quotes along with the application and make final determination on the funds awarded to the participant.
The applicant and their family are responsible for ensuring that the application is complete and submitted with the necessary documentation. Only applications that are complete (including required attached information) will be considered. Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you are having trouble with the application or have questions, please email jettgivingfund@jettfoundation.org.
Q. Can I mail the application to you? Is there a paper copy of the application available?
A: No, Jett Foundation only accepts applications that are submitted electronically through our website during the open application period. You are welcome to print the application at any time for your own conv
Q: Can I submit the inventory listing from the dealers/ vendors website as a quote?
A: No, you must submit official quotes from dealership/ vendors with certified vehicles for the specific product make, model, and year. The quotes submitted as part of your application must come directly from a dealer consultant on official company letterhead and provide a detailed prospectus of the mobility product recommendations made specifically for you or your child. The equipment cost must be included on this quote. Your name must also be listed indicating that this is a quote drafted up specifically for you or your child.
Q. I would like to apply to the Accessible Vehicle Fund and I have already raised money through my own 501(c)3. Can my foundation donate my half of the funding?
A. No, this would violate the anti-kickback statutes that nonprofits are legally obligated to abide by. Jett Foundation will reject any application that implies that this is what the applicant is interested in doing and reserves the right to remove a participant from the program if the organization has any reason to believe that the participant is violating or intends to violate anti-kickback statutes.
Q. How are acceptance decisions made and what is the criteria?
A. Acceptance decisions for the Accessible Vehicle Fund are made by a committee whose representatives include Jett Foundation staff, community members, and select board members. The committee reviews the applications as a group and makes decisions based on the criteria below:
Individual has a documented case of Duchenne muscular dystrophy; • Individual or caregiver has submitted completed application by the deadline;
Individual has documented that they have a significant and immediate need for the vehicle;
Individual has indicated in their application that they are highly motivated to raise the funds needed to reach their goal
Q: How will I know if I am accepted?
A: Determination announcements will be sent via email to all participants on March 17, 2022. All applicants will be notified whether they are accepted or denied by email.
Q: If I am selected, what are my responsibilities as a recipient?
A. If you are selected your goal is to raise 50% or more of the funds needed to purchase your accessible vehicle. By reaching or exceeding your goal, you and your community are helping us to ensure the longevity of our program and continue providing this support to families in the future.
Q: What if my vehicle ends up being more expensive than the original quote?
A: We understand that your original quotes may increase or decrease over time and as such, your fundraising goals will also change to reflect these additional price adjustments. If the cost of a vehicle is more than 10% than the total amount awarded, the excess amount above 10% will be raised by the JGF participant.
Q: Will the final payment be made to me?
A: No, all Accessible Vehicle Fund payments will be made directly to the dealership/or vendor indicated on the invoice/ quote.
Q: Are there exceptions to the application deadline?
A: Given the significant interest in the Accessible Vehicle Fund, we cannot provide exceptions to the deadline or the application.
Q: If I am not selected as an Accessible Vehicle Fund recipient, can I reapply again?
A: Yes, eligible applicants may apply once each calendar year. If you are not selected in one calendar year, you may apply again in the following year. For other funding needs, please visit https://www.jettfoundation.org/jett-giving-fund to learn about other branches of the Jett Giving Fund.
Q: Are donations tax-deductible?
A: Jett Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and donations may qualify as a charitable deduction for federal income tax purposes. All donors receive either an electronic or hard copy receipt upon donation.
Q: Where does Jett Foundation’s Jett Giving Fund receive its funding?
A: We are a public charity and rely on the generosity of our individual and corporate donors for support. Every dollar donated will help bring someone closer to life-changing mobility and freedom! To become one of many generous individuals and corporate sponsors that make this program possible, please email jettgivingfund@jettfoundation.org.
