Charities win, along with the environment, in the “Brown Bear Charity Car Wash Program”

Non-profit organizations are raising funds – and protecting the environment – through the successful “Brown Bear Car Wash Charity Car Wash Program.”

Sponsored by the Seattle-based, family-owned car wash chain, the program offers an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional car wash fundraisers where harmful run-off enters storm water systems and drains into Puget Sound or other local waters.

Brown Bear’s commitment to safeguarding the environment extends to its two Shoreline locations: Shoreline - 16048 Aurora Ave N (Self-Serve) and Shoreline - 16032 Aurora Ave N (Tunnel).

Since 2007, over 100 booster clubs, churches and other non-profit groups in the Puget Sound area have raised more than $4 million for their organizations. Valid for use at Brown Bear tunnel locations, tickets are purchased by the organizations from Brown Bear for $1.50 each and re-sold at a suggested price of $6-$8. The organizations keep the profit.

Over 150,000 tickets were sold in 2015 alone, and a record 27,000 tickets were sold this past March. For more information on the program, download a brochure, print the application or visit the web page.

Brown Bear Shoreline
Photo by Diane Hettrick

At Brown Bear Car Wash locations, road pollutants - including oils, heavy metals and antifreeze - are captured in the wastewater and safely discharged into the sewer treatment system, not storm water systems, for further cleaning.

In a single year, Brown Bear Car Wash pays to dispose of more than 500 tons of potentially hazardous sludge - an average of almost a ½ pound for every car washed.

“’Wash Green’ is much more than our corporate motto,” said Brown Bear Car Wash founder and CEO Victor Odermat. “It reflects our corporate commitment, which is a win for the organization, community, and the environment.”


About Brown Bear Car Wash: The family-owned company, through its parent company, Car Wash Enterprises, Inc., owns and operates a total of 43 car wash facilities in Washington State as well as a large network of gas stations and convenience stores.

Founded in 1957 by Victor Odermat, it is one of the largest privately held car wash chains in the U.S. and is widely recognized within the industry as being a leader in the environmental movement.