Nonprofit 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 Redmond locations at: 15248 Bel-Red Road (tunnel), 17809 Redmond Way (tunnel) and 17809 Redmond Way (self-serve).

Since 2007, more than 100 booster clubs, churches and other nonprofit 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.

More than 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 www.brownbear.com/programs/fund-raisers/.

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 stormwater 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 half 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.”