Still looking for a new year's resolution? Volunteering to drive a community member to a medical appointment, critical errand, or a social outing can be highly rewarding. Individuals who no longer drive often struggle to find transportation to the places they want to go, and face isolation, loneliness, and poor health if they cannot find rides. Volunteer drivers know they are making a difference in people's lives - and often build meaningful relationships and friendships with their passengers.

 

Want to help, but feeling crunched for time? Some companies allow employees to volunteer during work hours. For example, through the  SERV program, state employees in Massachusetts can spend up to one workday per month volunteering for municipal agencies and non-profits serving the community. Many organizations that offer  volunteer driver programs are already approved for SERV - such as the  American Cancer Society and  LifePath (formerly the Franklin County Home Care Corporation). Many  Councils on Aging - which are also approved sites for SERV - offer volunteer driver programs. State employees interested in driving for another program can fill out a  form to ask HR to review the organization and add it to the list.

 

Do you have a New Year's resolution related to community transportation or mobility management?  Let us know so we can share it on Twitter to inspire others.   And if you already operate a volunteer driver program but aren't yet part of our volunteer driver program network,  let us know  so we can invite you to upcoming networking and professional development opportunities.