Changing Lives by Giving Rides

At its core, the concept of the Volunteer Transportation program is quite simple: Volunteer drivers use their own cars to take seniors to medical appointments. But, on a deeper level, the program is about much, much more than just taking older adults to their doctors. It’s about connections formed and community built. It’s about spreading seeds of kindness.

Mariam M, a 93-year-old Bothell resident who is originally from Armenia, can certainly testify to the more profound ripple effects of the program. When her family learned that she would require daily radiation treatments, they were grateful to discover Volunteer Transportation. Mariam and her daughter-in-law rode with many different volunteer drivers over the past few weeks as they travelled frequently to Evergreen Hospital’s Oncology Department, and they greatly appreciated the service and support during such a difficult time.

Mariam recently expressed her feelings about the program in a card written to the Volunteer Transportation program. It reads,

“To Volunteer Transportation Senior Services,

Thank you for offering this wonderful and much needed service for Senior Citizens. It sure made life easier for my children and I. Your hard work combined with love, caring and dedication makes this world a very beautiful place to live in. If only everyone can act and help each other like this, the whole world will be at peace.

Love all of you & your fabulous volunteers,

Mariam M & family”

While we certainly can’t assert that programs like Volunteer Transportation alone would bring about world peace, we can echo Mariam’s sentiments that the program embodies the love and caring that each of us should express to make the world a better place. People in strong communities (and societies) help one another.

Do you feel called to serve King County seniors like Mariam? If so, become a Volunteer Transportation driver! The only requirements are a reliable vehicle, daytime availability, a clean driving record, and desire to help others. Apply online; find out more on our website; or contact Hilary at hilaryc@seniorservices.org or (206)748-7588 to learn more about this exciting volunteer opportunity. You can accumulate “miles and miles” of positive impact!