Neighbor Ride, which provides volunteer-based transportation to seniors in Howard County, is seeking volunteer drivers to drop off and pick up riders. Volunteers help seniors overcome isolation and maintain connections to their community by providing transportation to destinations such as doctors’ appointments, grocery stores, faith groups and social outings.

Neighbor Ride predicts over 250 new clients will need drivers during the current fiscal year, a 35% increase from the previous year.

“As need for our services grows, so does our need for volunteer drivers. Neighbor Ride volunteers enrich the lives of riders and help them reach important destinations and maintain some independence,” said Richard Watson, president of the board of directors. “We offer a great volunteer opportunity for both individuals and organizations looking to get employees involved in the community and welcome drivers with a heart for Howard County seniors.”

Volunteer drivers use their personal vehicles to provide door-to-door round-trip service and can choose daytime, evening or weekend rides that fit their schedules. Neighbor Ride offers orientations to interested drivers on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the organization’s office at 5570 Sterrett Place, Suite 102, in Columbia.

Volunteers must attend a Neighbor Ride orientation, be 21 years old or older and have a car, driver’s license and automobile insurance. For more information, visit NeighborRide.org.

Neighbor Ride enhances the health and quality of life for Howard County’s seniors by providing the comfort and peace of mind of affordable, passenger-focused transportation services through a reliable, volunteer-based system. The organization provided more than 17,000 trips to seniors in 2018. (NeighborRide.org)