Burke County United Way brings back Hyundai car giveaway for fourth year

Burke County United Way is bringing back its annual car giveaway for a fourth year, giving local donors a chance to win a new vehicle while helping fund programs aimed at strengthening families across Burke County.

In partnership with Paramount Ford Hyundai of Valdese, the nonprofit announced that one donor will win a 2026 Hyundai Elantra Limited.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will support Burke County United Way’s Strong Families Initiative, which backs programs intended to improve the lives of individuals and families in the county.

For local readers, the pitch is simple: A donation can support community services here at home and also serve as an entry in the drawing for a new car.

This year, the fundraiser is tied to Burke County United Way’s 70th anniversary, and the entry price has been lowered for one year only. Instead of the usual $100, donors will receive one entry for every $70 given.

Donations in multiples of $70 increase the number of entries.

The vehicle already has a nickname, “Perry 2,” a reference to last year’s giveaway car, and organizers say residents can expect to see it traveling around Burke County in the coming months with a colorful wrap promoting the fundraiser.

To enter, donors are asked to visit bcuw.org/car-giveaway to review the rules and then make a donation of $70 or more to Burke County United Way. The organization said donors who give at least that amount are automatically entered, with no separate form required.

Eligibility covers donations made between Dec. 3, 2025, and Dec. 1, 2026, which is also the date of the 7th annual 1BurkeGives Giving Day.

Finalists will be drawn and notified in December, followed by a giveaway event at Paramount Ford Hyundai of Valdese. The date for that event has not yet been announced.

The fundraiser is designed to do more than generate excitement. United Way said the giveaway was created to encourage community involvement, recognize donor generosity and raise critical funding for the Strong Families Initiative.

That local focus is the main point for Burke County residents. While the car is the attention-grabber, the money raised is intended to support programs aimed at helping local families facing challenges.

Paramount Ford Hyundai of Valdese is part of the Paramount Automotive Group, based in Hickory. The company operates dealerships in Charlotte, Greensboro, Hickory, Valdese, and Asheville and represents 17 new car franchises.

— AVN