Neighbor Ride Inc

I was a volunteer driver for NeighborRide several years ago, really enjoying meeting riders, learning about them, and learning about different services and locations in our county where I was taking them. More recently I have become a user of their services for my husband. Whenever we have contracted for a driver, my husband has been picked up promptly, delivered where he needs to go, and returned home safely. He has enjoyed meeting and talking with his drivers. I feel very lucky to have this service available in our area.

Neighbor Ride drivers go the extra mile for me. At one medical appointment, the doctor was 1 & 1/2 hours late in starting the appointment. I had built-in some extra time, but not 1 & 1/2 hours extra. When I hadn't been called in to the doctor's office 30 minutes after the appointment was supposed to start, I texted the Neighbor Ride driver and they said they could wait for me. They really extended themselves for me by waiting so long.

I have volunteered for Neighbor Ride for 8 years--first mainly as a driver and now as a driver and Ride Coordinator. Every time I work in the office answering the phones, or drive a passenger, I hear how important Neighbor Ride is to those who use it and how friendly and helpful the drivers are. In all of my years working in paid jobs, I never experienced so many people saying "thank you". People are so grateful for being able to have transportation to doctors appointments, social events, church, beauty appointments and their own volunteer jobs. Neighbor Ride is well organized, and offers a much needed service to those who can no longer drive.

Being part of the circle of volunteerism is amazing. My "regular" Rider uses my ride so that HE can volunteer as a Chaplain for the Veteran's Administration! He shares his experience of local history and the current "state of affairs" during our time together. I believe that when you volunteer, you get more than you give. Volunteering for Neighbor Ride is a joy!

I have met many interesting people through my work as a volunteer driver. The clients are always so grateful for the drivers, and the fact that they can stay in their own homes and still get to appointments and shopping.

This non-profit is so organized and well-run. The office staff is friendly and efficient. I greatly enjoy driving the seniors. They are so appreciative. I also love the flexibility. There is no set schedule for volunteering. So many of the passengers live so close to me that it only takes a half hour out of my day.

This has been one of my greatest volunteer experiences. I've met so many different people with so many different perspectives on life. We get to talk in a one on one setting. A senior myself, driving older seniors offers me a glimpse at what the future can hold.

Almost forgot: A flexible opportunity to serve the community. Always end a trip with a smile on my face.

Neighbor Ride serves a great need in the community by assisting the senior residents in getting to their appointments and other obligations. I have been a driver for a year and a half and, along with my children, have really enjoyed meeting and talking with our riders. I wish this type of nonprofit was available to seniors in other communities around the country.

I have volunteered as a driver for NeighborRide for 2 years. Unlike many of my fellow drivers, I'm still working , and work the rides in to my daily schedule. I've met wonderful people who regularly bring new perspective to my life. Moreover, the tiny but effective paid staff have such an organized operation that is a volunteers dream! The devil is in the details and they've got them figured out!

Neighbor Ride is the best opportunity for a volunteer. You are free to make the rides fit into your schedule. This is especially important to me because I can work my 9 to 5 job and still schedule rides in the evening and on weekends. The seniors that we pick up are so appreciative and many have interesting stories to share. It's a perfect mix of friendly drivers and friendly seniors, a pleasant experience on both sides. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be a driver and friend to these wonderful seniors.

I've been driving for Neighbor Ride for seven months. I started out only doing the minimum 2 rides a month, but in the past couple months, there are a few clients I've really gotten to know well and look forward to seeing them, so I try to do their rides as often as possible. I've made new friends and love our time in the car catching up. On the administrative side, Neighbor Ride makes it very easy for the drivers to find out who needs a ride. And I love volunteering in my local community, making it just a tiny bit better.

I have been volunteering for Neighbor Ride for the last two years. It gives me so much pleasure to see that I have made someone's life a bit easier for them. I have enjoyed hearing my riders life stories and how everyone is so appreciative!

I started with Neighbor Ride as a driver about six months ago. It is a very efficiently run organization by a staff that really cares about its customer base. The most wonderful aspect of Neighbor Ride is serving folks who really benefit from caring transportation and who are so grateful and sharing about their lives. I get back more than I give.

I have been driving for Neighborride for seven years now, usually for "regular" riders who need recurring rides for medical reasons. Currently I take a gentleman to dialysis three times a week (plus whatever doctor and hospital visits pop up each week!) This is no big deal for me - usually 15 minutes twice each day - but it is for him, as I do not know how he could continue living on his own without a reliable source of transportation.

My husband uses neighbor ride to get back and forth to dialysis. the people driving for this service are kind, generous and really seem to enjoy driving and helping people who cannot get around for medical appt. He has made a few friends along the way which is always nice to have in time of need. Thank you neighbor ride!

I started driving for Neighbor Ride about three years ago. I thought I'd be doing something good for others. That is true, but I had no idea how much good our clients would do for me. I have thoroughly enjoyed the clients I meet and often hearing about their life stories. What s privilege!

Neighbor Ride is the most satisfying charity I have ever worked as a volunteer. It's mission is so simple - provide low cost transportation for seniors and other eligible residents who can no longer drive themselves. Add in volunteer drivers who pass a simple test, and we all benefit. As a driver for almost 8 years, I have met so many wonderful clients, that I wish my life had more time for more rides.

I've met some interesting people and seen parts of the county i didnt know were there. i met a guy who went to the same high school as my dad, but 20 years later (we talked about how he felt as one of the few minorities in the school but how it had always been integrated). more of a slice of my dad's life! met people who were so immensely grateful that i felt humbled - took some to food bank or to doctors. but its also those who are going to socialize with disabled spouses or meet friends to finally get out of the house that also make this rewarding. The riders are all so happy to have a "new friend" and help.
my only issue is the sometimes lack of flexibility of a drive - if they would say they could go 30 minutes/hour earlier or later, i could drive more. but it is rewarding.

We all know or are related to someone older who needs a ride for a doctor appointment, shopping, or a social visit (and we, too, will need such assistance someday). Neighbor Ride provides well over a thousand rides each month, free of charge to those who cannot afford it. This is community and volunteer service at its best.

Neighbor Ride is the best volunteer gig ever!! I work the schedule and itinerary that suits me, and I meet interesting people all the time. If you like driving and meeting people, this is for you!!

I was a Neighbor Ride volunteer driver for 10+ years from the time the program began in 2004. It was wonderful to see the program grow from just a few drivers to more than 300 when I retired in 2015. Of the over 500 clients I drove to appointments I never had one that didn’t have anything but nice things to say about Neighbor Ride. It is a wonderful program and fills an important need in Howard County.

I'm a volunteer driver for Neighbor Ride. I enjoy getting to know the folks I drive. And I like that I can do it whenever I have some free time in my schedule; I don't have to commit to a certain time every week, and I don't have to find a substitute when I go on vacation. So flexibility is important to me as a driver.

Neighbor Ride fills such an important need in the community. Volunteers are so helpful and the organization is run with the highest standards while keeping the passengers' needs as the highest priority.

Neighbor Ride fills an very important need in our county's senior citizen community, i.e. transportation to doctors, shopping, social events, hair dressers, and whatever. As a driver, I've met some fantastic seniors who are all very appreciative of what we do. NR is well organized and makes the volunteer experience far more convenient and pleasant than any I've ever seen,

Neighbor Ride is exceptionally well-run and has proven to be an invaluable asset to the Howard County older adult community.

Neighbor Ride has become an essential part of our community. Their volunteers are so giving; and the transportation service they provide has completely changed the face of aging in Howard County. Despite no longer being able to drive themselves, older adults are able to get to their doctor appointments, shop, visit with friends, attend church services and do all the other things that bring them joy and fulfillment.

I volunteered regularly at Neighbor Ride for 6 years, and then my wife and I began to divide our time between Maryland and Florida. I have continued, while in Maryland, to volunteer at Neighbor Ride, although not as a "regular shift" Ride Coordinator, but as a "floater" or occasional RC. It's that valuable to me to continue giving back to the community.

Beginning in the next couple of weeks, I am trying out a "Remote Ride Coordinator" paradigm in which I will do some of the RC functions remotely, using computer and telephone (ah, included long distance, you are my friend!) This will keep my hand in and enable me to continue volunteering with Neighbor Ride, although from 1000 miles away!

This wonderful service continues to impact my life, and in a positive fashion!!

I had absolutely no idea what I would do in retirement. I love working for NeighborRide, As a ride coordinator and driver I’ve gained a sense of purpose, made me realize how lucky I am and introduced me to so many “new friends”!

I have been driving for neighbor ride for almost 10 years. There is no doubt that I am making a difference thanks to neighbor ride. Every ride I do I get to meet someone new and they get to keep some independence in their lives. That's a win/win for everyone! Not many nonprofits can say they are beneficial to all lives, both volunteers and participants,

I've been a volunteer for Neighbor Ride for about 6 years. I was looking for a way to get involved in the community that would fit in with my work schedule and busy home life. I love the flexibility of the hours and the way the administrators organize the ride notifications. And nothing brings me more joy than to help the elderly stay active and connected. I wish my parents had this kind of service in their community.

I've had the most wonderful experiences volunteering with Neighbor Ride! I've met the most fascinating people and even had the opportunity to catch up with the parents of friends from my childhood neighborhood. What a fun connection that was!

Everytime I drive for Neighbor Ride I make a new friend, which makes it so worthwhile. I also learn the challenges Seniors face in terms of mobility issues, and access to services. It helps me to be an informed advocate for this fabulous age group.

Using Neighbor Ride has been one of the nicest experiences of my 92 years old life! Meeting so many nice people and receiving such great care has been wonderful.

I have volunteered in the Neighbor Ride office for the past 7 years as a Ride Coordinator and volunteer driver. The first 6 years, following immediately upon my retirement as an Appeals Judge with the Federal Government, I had regular Ride Coordinator shifts each week. This (7th) year, I have been a "substitute Ride Coordinator" since I am away from Maryland for several months at a time.

To be succinct, Neighbor Ride changed my life, and gave me purpose in retirement. To recognize that what I was doing was helping the senior community in Howard County in a meaningful way, was very gratifying, and I am proud to "give back" to the community. This past year I have missed Neighbor Ride very much and I look forward to the occasional chances I have to continue my service as a Ride Coordinator.

For five of the years I served on the Neighbor Ride Board of Directors, which was also a gratifying experience and it gave me the ability to appreciate how well-run the organization is.

From a personal perspective, I most enjoy talking to the passengers and drivers, helping them solve problems which may arise in their experiences with Neighbor Ride. Occasionally, I meet one of these groups outside the NR setting, and it is most pleasant when they recognize me or recall that I helped them in the past.

This is the premier nonprofit in Howard County, Maryland, and its recognition of that fact for many years by the readers of a local magazine attests to its importance in this community. I'm sure that other reviewers have noted that Neighbor Ride decreases isolation and improves the health (and mental health) of members of the senior community by allowing people otherwise shut in, to get out, to their doctors, stores and any other places they need to go.

Neighbor Ride is an incredible group of volunteers and staff who continually go the "extra mile" to deliver on the mission

As a driver (7 years of me, 10 for my wife), you met interesting people (a jazz musician, a patient advocate in a local hospital), & folks of every background (businesspeople, teachers, doctors) and nationality (I've learned some Chinese from one passenger, some Japanese from another). Best of all, you set your own schedule, everything is simple and fully automated, and Neighbor Ride is a wonderfully run organization that never leaves its volunteers or clients in the lurch! A model for the whole country to emulate. Steve S

I have worked for Neighbor Ride, volunteered, as well as served on the board for this well organized, and hugely important organization. My husband is retired and has been a volunteer driver for several years. He enjoys speaking with and getting to know the passengers. It is often the highlight of his day. It seems volunteers get as much out of Neighbor Ride do as the passengers. Thank you Neighbor Ride for all that you do for others in our community.

After an early retirement I was looking for something to do to fill some time and give back to the community. NeighborRide is perfect. I can work it around my schedule, I've met great people and I get benefits greater than the small investment of my time. The people I've driven are so grateful and repeatedly tell me how happy they are to have this service available. I recommend it highly both for seniors looking for a ride and for volunteers looking to make a big impact on people's lives.

I have been a driver for about 18 months, and the experience has broadened my horizons and made me feel more integrated into the community. Most of the riders are a joy. They are cheerful and upbeat and so happy to have the Neighbor Ride service available. While many of the rides concern therapy or doctor's visits, some people are going to card games or social gatherings. One rider happily jingled her mah jong winnings as I drove her home from a party with friends. It helps keep the elderly or those with lesser means active and involved. Their stories are also interesting. I have learned from them strategies for aging and overcoming adversity. It is a win-win service fro riders and drivers alike.

The neighbor ride volunteer experience is definitely one where the volunteer receives as much benefit as the client. Almost every time I drive the conversation is stimulating and enjoyable. You get to meet wonderful people you might never come across in any other venue. My wife and I both are drivers and we actually have become close friends with the individual she took on her very first ride, You also get to visit local areas and become much more familiar with the area.

I saw a car with a Neighbor Ride magnet on it as I was taking my son to the pediatrician one day. I had been looking for an opportunity to start volunteering my time, but finding something that fit my schedule as a mom was difficult. I did some research online, and it sounded perfect. I started by taking the minimum two riders a month, but after meeting a particular gentleman whose regular trip to the gym was short and convenient, I began picking up almost all of his trip requests. My 2 year old son knows him now, and we have great conversations on classical music as we listen to the radio on the way to the gym! This has been a great opportunity to give back, to expose my son to serving others, and to meet some interesting people!

I recently began driving for NeighborRide. It has been wonderful to be exposed to people of many different backgrounds, religions, cultures, all of whom are so appreciative of my efforts on their behalf. And they are always prompt, courteous, and positive!

There should be a Neighbor Ride in every community. I've been volunteering as a driver for about a year now, and everyone I drive tells me what a difference the service makes in their lives. It gives them continued independence and frees them from feeling as if they're imposing on friends or family. The office staff of both paid employees and volunteers is quick to respond, flexible and very supportive of both drivers and passengers. The system is well organized, well automated, and works very, very well.

I've been driving with NeighborRide for over 4 years and have enjoyed the experience tremendously. The riders are appreciative of the service and always makes the point that NeighborRide enriches their lives say something along the lines of "I don't know what I'd do without it, "

I've been a driver for over seven years. I always knew how grateful our clients were and I truly enjoyed their stories, their spirit and their sense of humor. It wasn't until I faced a bout with cancer and was unable to drive, that I realized how much I missed it. It feels great to make a donation, but when it's face-to-face, the feeling is astounding. This is the ultimate pay it forward, with the bonus that one day I can get a ride from a friend and neighbor. Steve

I have been a Neighbor Ride volunteer for about 3 years and continue to hear how grateful our seniors are for the service we provide. It's great to be part of such a wonderful organization that makes a difference in the lives of our neighbors!

I've been a volunteer for Neighbor Ride since 2012 and I absolutely love this nonprofit organization! I love helping our senior citizens (always near and dear to my heart) and I love working with the staff at NR (Rosemary & Colleen, you ROCK!) always so friendly and willing to work with you on any schedule. I look forwarding to giving more rides when my class is finished!

Neighbor Ride was my saving grace. After working for 36 years, I retired. Now I didn't even have to get out of bed (not a good thing). I found Neighbor Ride in an internet search. Their requirements and my availability fit perfectly. They ask that you take 2 rides per month. Some days I do 2 rides in a day. I was able to work around scheduled vacations - I simply notified them how long I would be gone and the emails stopped until I returned. I purposely took early morning rides as a reason to get out of bed. The clients I've met have been awesome and I've fallen in love with so many of them. Now I look forward to the daily rides list and am occasionally disappointed to find a ride I would like to take has already been assigned! I love doing this and the clients always express their gratitude for this service!

I have been working as a ride coordinator on Fridays for over 4 years now. Every week I take calls from the seniors who use our service and am constantly told by them how grateful they are to have us and our wonderful volunteer drivers. I personally know the impact this organization is having due to the lack of one where my parents live. This organization enhances life for so many here in Howard County... week after week. I am proud to be associated with Neighbor Ride.

I joined Neighbor Ride a month after it opened--first as a ride coordinator and soon after also as a driver. It's well-run, responsive to driver and passenger needs and is a very rewarding experience. I volunteer at many nonprofits, and Neighbor Ride is the best!

My wife and I have been drivers for Neighbor Ride for three years, and we've had the privilege of meeting many, many nice people. The clients have always expressed deep gratitude for the continued freedom that NR gives them after they are no longer able to drive. From a driver's viewpoint the operation could not be more convenient. We can pick those rides that best fit our schedule. It is well organized and the office staff is the best.

I began as a volunteer driver when I retired in mid-2011 and I've enjoyed meeting people and hearing their stories since then. I've received more than I've given, I think. I've learned so much about other people and their difficulties as they aged, and also seen neighborhoods in my own county that I've never visited before. It's been a very rewarding experience.
Larry Carson

I wish this service was available to my parents and in-laws when they needed it (they dont live near here). So when i retired I immediately signed up. I've seen neighborhoods I didnt know existed, but more, i've met some very very sweet people. Its good to know I've helped them get out of their houses to something they needed or wanted to do. This is a great service for HoCo.

I have been a volunteer drive for almost two years with Neighbor Ride and I get to see first hand the impact we have to the seniors we drive. By providing a very inexpensive ride, to their doctor, shopping or visit friends eliminates the isolated feeling many of our seniors feel.

Neighbor Ride serves a vital role in the community and the evidence is in the wonderful comments shown here by our passengers and volunteers. It has been a real pleasure to be a small part of the success of the organization and the impact it has on people's lives.

Volunteering for Neighbor Ride has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. It has been a pleasure getting to know Seniors in my community and share stories while we drive. Thank you Neighbor Ride!

There is nothing more rewarding then helping those that can no longer do for themselves. This is made delightfully easy by the staff at Neighbor ride who work tirelessly to make sure matches are made between drivers and riders.

I love volunteering for Neighbor Ride because I can help someone when I am available. I travel and when I am in town I volunteer and when away they remove me from the email list. When my mother was alive she needed a service like this but there was none available where she lived. I tell people about this service who wish their parents lived in a community that offered such affordable transportation. This organization is so well run that people should realize how little time it takes to help someone. You pick the day, time and location. The direction and maps are all set up and even your mileage and cost of gas is configured for you. I have met some delightful people and feel good that I can help them get to places they need to go.
Emma A.

My experience with Neighbor Ride was unbelievably rewarding. I work full-time and have a fairly hectic schedule so I was seeking a way that I could give back to the community with a flexible schedule. Neighbor Ride was the answer. What I was unprepared for was the impact our clients had on my life. Independence is a gift often taken for granted when you have it; affording it to those without it otherwise adds so much to their lives!

I drove clients to church, to the gym, the grocery store, the dollar store......outings that they looked forward to all week! I cherished our conversations on the ride and made new friends. I was very sad to be unable to continue in the program and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in adding value to their life. The program is so well managed by a wonderful group of volunteers and it opened my eyes to how much it is needed in the community. I sincerely hope I can join again someday :)

My husband Jim has served by Neighbor Ride for a couple of years now- and this is the best group of volunteers ever. They are always prompt when picking him up and returning him home. My husband has the added issue of dementia and needs extra attention ... the drivers lovingly assist him in every way. I am very grateful for the volunteer drivers and this program.

I forgot to mention the wonderful volunteers who answer the phone and do the scheduling! They are awesome!

When one has extra time during retirement and the desire to "pay it forward" , Neighbor Ride provides an excellent option for community service. While there are multiple opportunities available to those who want to volunteer, Neighbor Ride gives back to the volunteer as much as the volunteer gives to Neighbor Ride. There is no fixed time or scheduling commitment. You get to donate as much, or as little, time as you want when you have the time available.

Some people do not like to say "no" when asked by others for help. With Neighbor Ride you never have to say no. You get to see who needs a ride and when they need the ride. You sign up for the ride with a positive action. If you cannot or do not want to take a ride, you do nothing, you do not have to turn someone down or say no. You call them, they do not call you.

With Neighbor Ride you quickly expand your friends in the community. You get to know you riders and can quickly see how important a few minutes of your time is to them. They get to stay in their homes because transportation is available and affordable. You can also foresee the day when you might depend upon the volunteers of Neighbor Ride to provide you with transportation so you can enjoy your later years in you own home. That's the pay it forward aspect that appeals to me.

While helping others, I get to meet some wonderful people who often touch my life with joy.

I've enjoyed my 3-and-counting years as a volunteer driver for NeighborRide. The communication system is easy to understand, and it's quick, enabling me to volunteer for a ride, or decline one that's been suggested for me. I've had rare situations where I've needed to contact someone right away about a problem, and the folks working the phone are great. That's the boring, inside stuff.

But giving rides to people who need them, and enjoying the companionship, stories, and commeraderie is what it's really about. Sometimes my young sons accompany me, and they get a lot out of it too. The day my 12-year old was able to carry a box of homecooked meals for an elderly woman going to a church to feed OTHER less-advantaged people was eye-opening for him. It was a glimpse at people who need help who are also ABLE to help others. He felt so good to be able to help her, and he appreciated seeing first-hand how many layers there are to service.

You can't teach that in school.

Volunteers drive seniors. In our suburban locale, our senior clients face isolation and inability to access needed services unless they drive, or are driven. As a volunteer driver, I feel very appreciated by our clients. We frequently go to medical facilities. Some clients do have cars, but are wise enough to recognize that infirmities, such as failing eyesight or weak legs. make them unsafe/unsteady drivers. Our Neighbor Ride drivers provide these clients with access to the services they need, and at the same time we avoid having an unsteady driver on our roads.
Neighbor Ride provides exemplary support to volunteers such as myself. We are trained, and given annual refresher training. We are kept informed through regular communications. We are very much in control of when we volunteer, and are provided a very convenient web access. I am a volunteer with several other organizations, all of which are very fine. But none is as great as Neighbor Ride in its support to volunteers and its dedicated service to its clients.

I started volunteering two years ago when I became an empty nester. Driving is a wonderful way for me to give to my community while meeting new and interesting people. I enjoy getting to know my passengers and see the world through their eyes. It's a win/win for all!

I volunteer with Neighbor Ride as my way of honoring my mom who passed away several years ago. She needed rides to doctor appts and had to rely on friends and family because there was no organization like Neighbor Ride in my hometown. I lived far away and could not help out, so I volunteer knowing that I am helping another family that is looking to keep their senior active and independent. It is a great organization to volunteer for.

I love driving for Neighbor Ride! The seniors are so grateful to the drivers, and I have met some lovely people.

I have been with Neighbor Ride for just a few months. I have been doing about one ride per week. I have been amazed at how well the program is run. I am so grateful for the opportunity to meet such sweet and wonderful people. Every client that I have driven has left me with a wonderful memory, each one is a very special person. Thank you Neighbor ride for giving me the opportunity to meet them.
Ines G Perez

I have driven for Neighbor Ride for slight over one year. I came to the organization to fulfill a social work assignment for a training program that I was in. However, it did not take long for me to realize that this was not going to be a one-time assignment but rather something that I wanted to do. I soon felt that through Neighbor Ride I was becoming a vital part of the community. I was meeting a definite need for many of the residents in the area. I have met some of the most interesting and, in their own way, exciting people while driving them to appointments. By meeting their needs, I found that I am also meeting personal needs as well. I feel that I am contributing to the wellbeing and happiness of people that would otherwise have a world bound by the walls of their home. Talking to people as we drive to and from various locations helps me to see the contribution that I, Neighbor Ride and these people all combine to make to the well-being of this neighborhood. I am no longer seeing Neighbor Ride as an assignment for a class but rather something that I do and will continue to do that enriches my life as well as our clients' lives. I believe that the impact of Neighbor Ride begins with our clients but spiders out into the lives that touch them as well,

I love my volunteer gig with Neighbor Ride! I get the personal reward of helping home-bound seniors get out of their homes for appointments, shopping, or social outings. This is huge, as isolation is a major problem for seniors who cannot drive, and it really makes me feel good to know I'm helping. Bonus #1 - I can participate as little or as much as my schedule allows - I pick the exact rides and times that work for me. Bonus #2 - I meet some of the most interesting people - I've given rides to presidential speechwriters, inventors, authors, artists, pretty much everyone I meet has an interesting story to share about their life!

My husband & I have driven for NeighborRide for almost 6 years. I know that providing transportation allows seniors to remain independent longer, but what I love most is the interesting people that I meet. I am always enriched by the seniors that I drive and it's a privilege to serve them.

Neighbor Ride is a wonderful resource for our community! Our dedicated team of staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that our county's seniors are able to stay active and get where they need to go when they need to get there. I'm proud to be associated with such a great organization!

I just joined the board for Neighbor Ride and I attended my first meeting which was the strategic retreat. I am so impressed with the staff and board of this group. It is very exciting to be a part of a non-profit organization who strives to reduce isolation in the elderly population by providing free or low cost rides to doctors appointments, social gatherings, church activities, errands, etc. We of course can't accomplish this without our wonderful volunteers. A big goal for us this year is to increase our volunteers so we can continue to offer this wonderful service to Howard County elederly residents.

As a Board member, I hear many stories from the drivers and other volunteers that work for Neighbor Ride. One favorite is a passenger that faithfully calls the office each time she is transported, and leaves a message of thanks for that day's ride. That makes the drivers feel good, the passenger feels good, and the office volunteers are reminded how much the service means to our clients.

In this economy, it's especially important to us to know that the money we are able to donate will be used wisely and have a significant impact. By giving to Neighbor Ride, we know that we are maximizing the "bang for our buck." It is undoubtedly one of the best run nonprofits in our area; and the organization's volunteers are making a tremendous difference in the lives of seniors in our community.

Many of us take driving for granted. But, without driving ones life becomes very isolated. Hearing the stories of seniors that have been positively impacted by the kindness of Neighbor Ride volunteers is a wonderful thing. This is a great organization that really makes a difference in the lives of seniors.

At my age, seventeen, driving is a priviledge, not a right. Many teens take advantage of the fact that they only need to prove they are capable and responsible in order to earn the approval of their parents to drive. Elder citizens have lost the ability to drive and have no choice but to lean on their neighbors, family members and friends to provide transportation so they can continue to fufill their lives. From the perspective of a child of a volunteer, Neighbor Ride has not only enhanced the lives of the seniors, but has also enhanced the lives of the volunteers who serve. This service enables the community, young and old, to connect and come together as neighbors should. I have seen my parents joy at being able to care for elders and return at least a small amount of their independence to them.

Neighbor Ride is an invaluable resource to the senior community in Howard County. Remaining active is essential to the health and well-being of seniors and Neighbor Ride greatly assists with this through their transportation services.

Each day during the school year I take our youngest son to pre-school and then return to our home. Most Tuesday mornings a Neighbor Ride passenger needs a ride to a local senior/community center for a morning of exercise and then a meal with fellow seniors. Her home is right on the way home from our son's pre-school and the senior/community center is right by our home. Thanks to the Neighbor Ride organization, most Tuesday's I pick-up this passenger and take her to the senior center and then take her back home during my lunch break. How convenient, simple and helpful is this - and this is just one of many passengers I have had the chance to interact with. I have had many other opportunities to take folks to doctor appointments, physical therapy sessions, etc. - and on many occasions fitting their trip needs in with errands I needed to run anyway. Again - how simple, convenient, and beneficial for all involved. I also volunteer in the Neighbor Ride office and have seen first hand how wonderful and dedicated the small team of folks that run the organization are. Whether its a last minute emergency driver cancellation or trying to make sure a passenger gets to a critical medical appointment, they always willing to jump in and help a passenger get to where they need to be.

For years, my siblings and I cared for our parents, including juggling schedules so we could transport them to appointments, shopping, and other outings where public transportation was simply out of the question. My mother used public transportation to volunteer until she was unable to do so. If only there had been a Neighbor Ride at that time. What a difference it would have made for my parents. Thank God for such an organization that helps support the health and well-being of our senior population (like me) in an affordable (and sometimes free) way. There are organizations being helped today by volunteers who use Neighbor Ride to get to the locations. Volunteers Drive, Seniors Thrive!

Being a Neighbor Ride volunteer is flexible, fun, and fulfilling to both myself and the clients we serve. I love to talk and talking with the passengers during the ride is always a treat. Their stories of wars they served in, days before computers and cell phones, and genuine hard-work ethic is an inspiration. Being without transportation can make you feel isolated, and Neighbor Ride gives our passengers companionship AND the opportunity to get to where they need to go, something we tend to take for granted.

I enjoy this giving back by volunteering for this organization because it allows me to meet other people one-on-one, and I learn more about the county. If I did not drive as a volunteer, I would not venture into other parts of the county.

I began as a volunteer with Neighbor Ride 7 years ago. Since then my husband became a volunteer too. We have enjoyed working with such caring, generous people but also knowing that we are making a positive impact each and every day on the lives of seniors in Howard County. It isn't just the appreciate we feel for what we do, but the knowledge that we can make a positive difference with so little effort in people's lives. We are proud to help and proud that Neighbor Ride has become such an important force in our county. Thank you Neighbor Ride for giving us this opportunity. And thank you to all who participate!

Transportation is a huge challenge for the elderly and Neighbor Ride definitely helps to address this challenge. Two to three times a month, I drive people to doctor's appointments, the grocery store, religious services or any place they want to go. Most of these people had been able to drive but no longer can--something that is not easy for them to get used to. Neighbor Ride allows people to remain in their home connected to their community. I find it immensely satisfying to volunteer for this organization.

I started with Neighbor Ride as a volunteer about a year ago. I was looking for some way to help seniors in my community. Neighbor Ride was the perfect fit for me. I can take as many rides a month as are convenient for my schedule. The system is beautifully set up and managed by volunteers. I have it set so that I can check my email once a day and check on upcoming rides. I simply choose which ones I a can do and they send a confirmation email within minutes. It is all there in the email. I am very pleased with this organization and our ability to help keep seniors mobile.

I have been a volunteer driver for Neighbor ride since the very first ride. I have had many wonderful discussions with my riders, but one stands out as exceptional. One week I took a British WW11 vet to his doctor. Since I am also a vet, we told old war stories. The next week, I had another vet, but he was German. As we talked I learned that both men had been on opposite sides in the exact same area of conflict at the same time and most likely were shooting at each other. Both men said they hated the army and the war.

It is a wonderful way to give back to the community and the clients are all so interesting. Neighbor Ride makes it especially easy to help others.

Neighborhood Ride makes it easy for a busy stay at home mom of three to give back to the community. The hours I have to donate vary from day to day and week to week. The ease of NR's online volunteering system allows me to volunteer when I can and adjust accordingly when I can not. When I volunteer, the conversations I have with the seniors while we are traveling to and from their appointments is sometimes the hightlight of my day. It's definitely been a win win situation.

I joined Neighbor Ride in July 2011 and have been so glad I did. Every person I have taken has been so grateful and friendly; I wish I could drive them all! It's too bad that the county doesn't supply transportation for the elderly, so I am glad to help them stay in their homes. There are many people who need transportation, and there will be more, so I'm happy to help in my way.

After my daughter was born in 2010, I was looking for a community service opportunity to do on a consistent basis with her. My parents taught me about the importance of giving back to the community, and I wanted to teach her from the beginning as well. I didn't have much success finding a non-profit to work with alongside my baby, until I read about Neighbor Ride in the Columbia Flier! I saw a picture with a mom and her child in the back, taking a senior on their trip. I was sold on the fact that this non-profit was family friendly and started to volunteer in August 2011. The seniors love my daughter, and she loves the inter-generational experience. As a busy mom who is working full-time and going to school full-time, the hours of availability to drive seniors are extremely flexible for my schedule. We usually do our rides on the weekend. Volunteer drivers are asked to take 2 rides a month, but if you can do more, great! Also, I have only had to cancel a ride once (due to my daughter being sick), and Neighbor Ride was very professional and understanding about my dilemma. They immediately sent out an email to the volunteers asking if anyone could take the ride. The seniors are very gracious about the rides. I would want someone to do the same for me when I'm older, or for my parents or grandparents. This experience really makes me feel like I'm making a difference.

Neighbor Ride has given me and my 5 yr. old son such great opportunities! I love being able to help seniors in my area and introduce community service to my son at such a young age. He and I both enjoy conversations with our riders and going to new places.

Neighbor Ride provides a very flexible way to provide volunteer hours to the senior community. The computerized listings of available rides makes it easy to fit a ride into my schedule. The riders are interesting, friendly and make the trips most enjoyable. The office staff are the greatest providing useful and timely information to make volunteering easy and enjoyable.

I have always wanted to volunteer for NeighborRide. When I took early retirement I was able to sign up. It is one of the most organized and professional organizations that I have worked with. It is wonderful to meet these wonderful seniors and to assist them in maintaining their independence. The seniors are extremely grateful for this service.

Neighbor Ride keeps Seniors engaged and active in their daily lives by providing a safe point-to-point ride. I get the honor of being that "provider" and I have the good fortune to meet some incredible people. I recently met a gentleman with over 50 years as an Educator. I have my 10 years in and I found him to be an inspiration to keep at it (but NOT for 40 more!) I enjoy providing rides that work for my schedule -- I work full time so I volunteer nights and weekends where I am available. There is a great deal of need for this service throughout the county so I am glad that I can contribute. If you think you need a volunteer position that meets your schedule, this is the one to consider. You have to like to drive and you have to like Seniors and you have to be patient but it all tends to work out very smoothly. It has been very rewarding.

GREAT PROGRAM SENIORS ARE ALWAYS SO GREATFUL THIS GIVES THEM A CHANCE TO GET OUT AS WELL AS GET TO THERE DESTINATION MOST HAVE LITTLE COMPANY AND ENJOY THE CONVERSATION WITH US

Driving the wonderful seniors for Neighbor Ride makes me both happy, but helps to assure that the service will be viable when I need it. I too am a senior. Isolation is such a threat to us as we get older. No group is more appreciative of a simple act of helpfulness.

I volunteer as a driver for Neighbor Ride, Inc, and have been involved for almost 2 years now. A good friend has been involved for over 7 years. My experience has been nothing except extraordinary. The simple gift of my time and my car provides independence and friendly conversation during the time the Neighbor Ride clients share my car. I have met wonderfully engaging and lively individuals who would be housebound or dependent on only family members for transportation. With Neighbor Ride and other volunteers like me, they can lead full and independent lives which can include doctor's visits, time spent at local senior centers, grocery shopping or just visiting other friends and family. My free time gives them this gift of independence. And, I enjoy their company and the give of their friendship. Neighbor Ride brings us together.

NeighborRide has been a wonderful experience for me - I truly get to help people at the ground level - where they live, where they need to go (doctors office, social outings, etc). It is one of the most immediate returns on time investment I have participated in. I additionally enjoy getting to talk with the riders, find out about them and share.

I wanted an opportunity to help community residents and Neighbor Ride has been a wonderful experience! There's flexibility because I choose which rides fit my schedule. I can bring my child along to experience volunteerism, and I really have enjoyed meeting the seniors who I drive.

I have been a volunteer for Neighbor Ride for about 6 months. I became interested in volunteering for this organization after losing my Mother-in-Law to cancer. We had an impossible time of trying to coordinate rides to doctors' appointments after her treatment for cancer. I new first hand how valuable this service could be for a family. After having personally provided about 25 rides to seniors throughout Howard County it has become evident to me how critical this service is to enable the senior population to live independent and fulfilling lives. The very small paid staff at Neighbor Ride does an amazing job of training drivers, coordinating rides for clients and keeping drivers and other volunteers informed. According to the information Neighbor Ride has provided, the demand for rides is constantly increasing in our county and surrounding counties. One experience really drove home, for me, the need for this service and the need to continue to find more drivers and scheduling volunteers. I was dropping a client at the BWI train station when a nun from the Little Sisters of the Poor stopped and inquired about the service I was providing (we identify our service by placing a removeable magnet on our passenger side door). She inquired about specifics regarding the organization and how she would go about using our services. Unfortunately, she was located in a neighboring county, but I could tell by her comments that this would have been a very useful service to the seniors living at one of their sponsored homes. On a personal level, I have felt a great deal of satisfaction after providing a ride for someone. They are extremely appreciative for the ability not to burden their loved ones time after time, for things they need or want to do. I cannot speak highly enough of the professional, efficient and friendly staff and team of volunteers that I have had the pleasure of dealing with thus far. I plan to remain as a volunteer and provides as many rides as my schedule allows for.

I drive senior citizens who are no longer able to drive themselves. This is the most rewarding volunteer service I have ever been involved in. Every rider is so appreciative.

As a retired leader/administrator of a large organization, I am enormously inpressed at the organizational sophistication of Neighbor Ride. It is the best run little non-profit I know of. Using optimal computer technology, Neighbor Ride makes itself very flexible, user friendly and convenient for both the volunteers and riders. Because of its philosophy and modest fee scale, all individuals can have unparralled mobility to go where they want to, shopping, visiting, cultural events, etc. And we volunteers get to commune for a bit with some mighty impressive seniors who are always more then appreciative of this organization and the volunteers' efforts!

My experience with Neighbor Ride has been positive. Their flexible scheduling allows me to volunteer in a way that fits my schedule. They are organized with details and make it easy on me as a driver to play my role. When issues arise they are prompt and courteous with handling them. Their email system of notification and reminders are effective and helpful. All clients I've interacted with have shown their appreciation for my help. This is easily the best volunteer supported organization I've ever worked with.

I began a month after Neighbor Ride was founded as a ride coordinator and soon after became a driver as well. The rides we provide are life changing and enabling for the seniors we serve. The conversations we engage in while we schedule rides and drive are also beneficial to family members and the passengers themselves; they love the human contact and a chance to chat.

I am a volunteer driver for the citizens Neighbor Ride supports in Howard County. I enjoy this experience very much, so much that I provide a ride once a week, mostly to elderly people no longer able to drive for themselves. NR is very organized in how it coordinates drivers and those in need of rides, so they make it a beneficial experience for all participants, and an extremely valuable service for our local community.

Neighbor Ride is now seven yars old. It has won best not for profit in our diverse community for the past few years. The beauty of the organization is that it provides rides, at very low cost, to seniors so they can remain in their homes after their ability to drive has left them. They are driven by volunteers to anything they wish like: doctors' appointments, cultural events, volunteer activities, or lunch with friends. Many of the volunteers and seniors develop lasting friendships. This is a win win for the participants, the community, but most certainly for the seniors families who are not available to drive their loved one when they are either living in another community or are working and just not able to help. This is something needed across the country for seniors. I am so grateful we have it right here for when I need it.

My wife and I have been driving for Neighbor Ride for about six months. When we retired we were looking for a volunteer organization that fitted our retirement life style, i.e. travel, babysitting our many grandchildren, and being physically active. Neighbor Ride is a perfect fit. We can schedule rides to fit our ever-changing schedule. The support staff and systems are remarkably well organized so that everything flows smoothly. As an added bonus, we meet some very nice people who often tell us that they don't know how they would manage to get to doctors, rehab, etc. without Neighbor Ride. It's fun!!!!

I joined NeighborRide as a volunteer driver about a year ago..I had some free time on my hands and enjoy driving. I have met some very interesting people who, if it were not for the inability to drive, would continue to experience life to their fullest potential. It's my pleasure to assist these fine individuals continue to do the basic tasks that we take for granted. Whether its doctor appointments, or shopping, or social events, its nice to be able to take them where they need to go and hopefully improve their quality of life. I hope NeighborRide can continue to do this work for a very long time.

Interaction with Neighbor Ride staff is smooth. Their staff are knowledgeable and helpful. Ride scheduling for volunteers is easy to use and understand. Clients are friendly and understand the service being provided. I have rarely seen such an organized non-profit with such easy to participate in volunteer positions. I feel like the driving I do for clients is very helpful to them and the clients are grateful for the service. If you are looking for an impactful way to volunteer with extremely flexible scheduling then Neighbor Ride is a great option.

I have been a volunteer driver for NeighborRide for almost 3 years. It brings me great pleasure to be able to assist the seniors of my community with their transportation needs. As a mother of two, I have volunteered for many organizations and events, but none have been as fulfilling to me as Neighbor Ride. I enjoy getting to know these seniors and hearing their stories. I appreciate how grateful they are for this much needed service. It is easy to schedule drives at a time that is convenient to me. Neighbor Ride does more than assist seniors. It also enables those with limited time who want to help in the community a place to do so.

I have been looking for a volunteer opportunity that could possibly include my children so it does not take away from their time. Neighborride has proven to meet my needs! The Neighborride organization is very professional and organized and volunteers have the opportunity to meet so many wonderful seniors whose insight into life and overall zest for life is evident and contagious.

NeighborRide was a non-profit to which I intended to give time as I looked ahead to retirement. I wish I had started volunteering sooner because I have missed out on this wonderful experience during the first 4+ years of my retirement. A year ago, I took the training (easy!) and began fitting rides into my already busy schedule. After beginning with 1 ride a week, I am now generally scheduling rides 2-3 times a week, and often I squeeze in more when I am called as a 'last resort' volunteer. The ride-assignment process is so easy, and allows for total flexibility by the drivers, that volunteering should fit into anyone's schedule. All you need is a desire to help folks who are unable to get themselves to destinations - doctors, senior centers, churches, volunteer activities, etc. This service gives our older population events that approximated their lives before they stopped driving. Join us and be amazed as most of us are. You won't be sorry.

Seniors without their own transportation or without a family member or friend to transport them can face frightening isolation. NeighborRide becomes that family member or friend, taking seniors to doctors, to the grocery store, to the mall, to senior centers, social events, religious services, and more. NeighborRide helps prevent the fear of isolation and instead it provides Seniors with a means of making their later years more fulfilling, healthy and enjoyable. As a volunteer, I also get a great deal of pleasure working with other NeighborRide volunteers and the many Seniors using NeighborRide. It provides me a great deal of personal satisfaction in my retirement.

I have been a driver with Neighbor Ride since 2008. I have met so many wonderful people along the way. As a mother of three young children, my schedule is very full but Neighbor Ride has an efficient system in place where I can select rides that fit into my schedule and I volunteer on my terms. My rides are very rewarding because I get to learn so many new things from my older passengers and I hope that I give them something to smile about when I take them home. I hope this service exists when I am unable to drive one day.

I have had the fortunate opportunity to drive for Neighbor Ride since 2005. I volunteered to give back to a community that has given me and my wife Wanda so much. The Staff at NR has a passion and desire to make the experience for the Volunteer just as beneficial as they do for the Seniors they service. The Seniors that I drive is where the fun begins. I receive a education I never would have imagined on every pick up and drop off. To hear where they came from, what they did, their life experiences allows me to appreciate this opportunity all the more. Come on board to help change a life. It may just be yours. Dennis Boucher

I so enjoy working both with those who are in need of rides and also the commitment of the organization and all of those who work toward making this worthwile mission so successful. As a volunteer I am able to give our riders a sense of security and confidence that they will be taken to their various appointments by someone who cares. The riders are given to opportunity to step ouf of the confines of their home and take care of their needs just by making a phone call. Some of my riders have a limited ablilty to speak English yet we manage with a great deal of humor to enjoy the experience together.

I teach middle school and we require our students to perform "Student Service Learning". It became time for me to not just talk-the-talk but step it up to walk-the-walk. I selected Neighbor Ride because I do enjoy meeting and working with our elders and I have found them to be enjoyable companions on rides around Howard County to any kind of appointment imaginable. Doctors visits, social gatherings, religious services - even basic errand-running are all valid reasons for seniors to use the service. I think we all benefit from our time together.

Meeting and assisting the clients of NeighborRide has been a joy during the 9 months I have been a driver. I am meeting individuals who have led interesting, and in some cases, absolutely amazing lives, and who appreciate this way of maintaining their own lives when age or illness has taken their ability to drive themselves. I look forward to additional time with my clients during future appointments. Scheduling is very easy and allows me to maintain my personal life in retirement by accepting rides that fill my free time. I have a friend who says the same thing and she is still working.

Neighbor Ride helps seniors, who no longer drive, to remain independent. It allows them to go shopping, visit friends, and keep appointments without depending on family members or disrupting anyone's schedule. I love meeting and talking to the people I drive as a Neighbor Ride volunteer. I usually pick rides close to my own neighborhood, and thus I am meeting many neighbors that I did not previously know. I'm making new friends and helping people at the same time.

So much for so little! Keeps seniors independent and mobile and provides a flexible volunteer opportunity creating immediate impact. A win-win for all! Taking folks to cultural and social events, religious services, volunteer jobs, managing healthcare and business appts., visiting friends and loved ones, or just getting a haircut or picking up a birthday gift allows seniors to have door to door service in a private vehicle at their preferred time. A viable transportation option with minimum infrastructure and staff. More than 250 volunteers are providing more than 1,000 trips each month!