That’s the mission of Forge Flint, a community development initiative whose Forge Garage provides low-cost auto repairs and vehicles to families throughout Genesee County.

“Our mission is to help families overcome the transportation hurdle on their road to flourishing,” said Matthew Soulia, Forge Flint executive director and founder.

Longtime friends Soulia and Garage Director Aaron Dunigan hatched the idea from listening to community needs and drawing together what Dunigan calls “their hearts to serve.” The Forge Garage now works with dozens of community organizational partners who refer families in need of auto repairs.

In Flint, where walkability is limited and bus routes don’t reach every job site, a broken-down car can mean a lost job or a missed appointment.

“You think about how many times you just jump in your car and drive somewhere,” Soulia said. “Transportation is one of those things that is kind of unseen.” 

By removing transportation barriers, Forge Garage works to improve economic mobility — giving families a more accessible path to reach work and other commitments. The garage also creates opportunity through a mechanic apprenticeship program, providing training for community members pursuing careers in the trades.

A $15,000 grant from CFGF’s Poverty Fund allowed Forge Garage to hire a full-time mechanic and expand from two days a week to five or six, nearly tripling its impact. To date, the garage has helped over 60 families obtain a car of their own. The organization is working toward a second full-time mechanic, which they estimate could reach an additional 150 to 200 families each year.

“There’s value in each and every person that walks this earth,” Dunigan said. “Forge Garage exists only to be a good neighbor. We just want to look out for people and see families thrive.”