My Nonprofit Reviews

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.

I have been volunteering for Neighbor Ride for almost 5 years, as a Ride Coordinator, Driver and a member of the Board. It is one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever enjoyed. I particularly like engaging the passengers and drivers in conversation, and in knowing that Neighbor Ride has had a positive impact on their lives.

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Neighbor Ride has changed my life! When I retired in 2008, I was looking for a volunteer opportunity where I could give back to the community, and happily, I found Neighbor Ride! As a Ride Coordinator in the NR office two days a week, I schedule rides, request drivers for specific rides, and talk to the senior population that NR serves. And I can safely say I get more out of this than they do! I enjoy chatting with the passengers and I have developed cordial relationships with them. I know how much this service means to the individual riders, and I am proud to be a part of this very necessary and well-regarded utility which is so important in their lives! When problems develop with particular rides, I also take pride in coming up with solutions that work for the passengers and the drivers. I am also proud to say that some passengers ask for me when they call in. This proves to me that I have made a difference in their lives, too. In short, Neighbor Ride is important for the community, and it is important for me as well.

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