04/28/2026
Blessings comes to those who bless others! Volunteering is always welcome from anyone, no matter if it’s cleaning a vehicle for donation or helping change oil or even supplying snacks for those who are getting repairs!
Give them a call today to sign up to be volunteer or to donate to a good cause!
🧰 Volunteer Spotlight: Eric & Sarah Widner 🧰
Eric and Sarah Widner are a powerful example of what happens when a couple chooses to serve together... not just with their time, but with their talents, resources, and hearts.
Through their business and partnership, they are helping restore more than vehicles, they’re helping restore hope. And in doing so, they’re proving that when you use what you’ve been given to bless others, lives are changed... including your own.
Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: We've been married for 3 years and we have 4 children between us. We love to be outdoors going camping, fishing, swimming, and spending time with our families. It's our passion working in the automotive industry together. We cherish being able to give back to our community and have been blessed to be able to do so. We own Certified Auto Sales and manage Tom’s Auto Clinic.
Q: How did you first get connected with Mobilizing Knoxville?
A: We first got connected with Mobilizing Knoxville thru my dad, Tom Maples, who runs the free weekend clinics at Tom's Auto Clinic. My dad retired from the shop and I took over giving me ample opportunity to help during other times.
Q: What is your volunteer role?
A: Eric does a lot of the free inspections and repairing small things along with detailing vehicles before donated. Sarah orders parts needed for the weekend clinics and determines what is most needed to get these vehicles safely on the road.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of helping someone with transportation?
A: We have been blessed above limitations and being able to help people in need of a safe vehicle, whether it's repairs or tires, is soul warming. Blessings always come to those who bless others.
Q: Has serving impacted your faith, personal life, or view of your community? If yes, how?
A: Serving others has been a game changer for us as a couple and in our business. We strongly believe God puts every opportunity in front of us for a reason. We are here to serve others.
Q: What's been one of the most meaningful moments you've experienced through serving?
A: Experiencing how much you can help the community and give people a new start has been meaningful. Your past does not dictate your future. Seeing some of the donated vehicles going to these special people holds an extra soft spot in your heart.
Q: Do you need to have any special skills or certifications to serve with Mobilizing Knoxville?
A: Anyone can volunteer with Mobilizing Knoxville and anyone can donate, whether it's small or large. No experience needed, just the desire to serve others in your community.
