Volunteer Driving: A Family Affair

Volunteer Driver Sara C. knows that an ethic of service is developed at an early age and that intergenerational connections are very enriching. She remembers volunteering with her mother in nursing homes during her early childhood—at a time when very few other experiences were implanted in her memory.

And now, as she has a family of her own, she strives to teach her children these same lessons about the powerful impact of helping others and the value of spending time with people of diverse backgrounds.

Sara actively includes her two little ones (ages four and almost-two) in the rides that she provides through Senior Services’ Volunteer Transportation program. Each week, she packs snacks, games, and toys before she and her “driving team” head out to take seniors to local medical appointments.

Her children may not be old enough to contribute to the tasks at hand, but she knows that they are gaining something in the process. Sara describes many special bonds that her kids have formed with clients of the program and explains, “I really hope they learn how important volunteering is. I want them to realize that, throughout their lifetime, they’ll meet many people who have different needs.

Since we have the ability to help, it’s important for us to do so.”

Volunteering is clearly a win-win situation for Sara, her family, and the clients of Volunteer Transportation.

On an individual level, she speaks about gaining humility, lots of incredible knowledge about the area’s history (via stories that passengers share with her), and a better understanding/appreciation of aging.

Her son and daughter acquire firsthand experience with helping others, and clients of the program have their days brightened by her amusing children. Collectively, they make friends of all ages.

Volunteer drivers of all walks of life are needed to provide local seniors with transportation to important medical appointments. Use your own vehicle and choose the weekdays, times, and areas in which you want to drive. We provide supplemental liability insurance and offer mileage reimbursement.

For more information, visit http://www.seniorservices.org/transportation or contact me at hilaryc@seniorservices.org or call 206-748-7588. You can also read more stories like Sara’s on our blog: at www.volunteertransportation.blogspot.com.

If you have the “drive” to provide meaningful service and enjoy giving rides, this is the volunteer job for you!

From Senior Services I&A newsletter, December 2012