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Need a Ride? No Problem!

By Jim Hendrick
Posted: 09/17/2024

Pasadena Village, a vibrant community organization dedicated to supporting older adults, is helping Villagers maintain independence and stay active by providing a much-needed transportation service. Offering rides to Village events and medical appointments, this service has become a cornerstone of the Village's commitment to its members, ensuring they can participate fully in community life while attending to their essential needs.  Wayne April has been a driver for 6 years, "I want to help fellow Villagers and I like to drive."

From the very beginning, transportation has been a vital component of Pasadena Village. In the planning stages, the founders, including Dave Folz and Sue Kujawa, carefully studied existing Village models across the country. One characteristic that stood out in all the Villages they examined was the provision of rides. Pasadena Village chose to focus on ensuring that every Villager has access to reliable transportation when needed.

Today, Pasadena Village's Transportation Team, led by Dan Guerrero, is a testament to the power of community volunteerism. The team comprises 28 dedicated volunteers, including 24 Villagers and four volunteers from the broader community. Village driver Bruce Christensen says, "I love the one-on-one relationship that develops between myself and our riders." These volunteers are the backbone of the program, offering their time, vehicles, and goodwill to help fellow Villagers. Dan and the Team are actively working to expand and strengthen the program. 

The most common requests for rides are to Village events and medical appointments, making up the majority of the 30 rides provided each month. Whether it's getting to a doctor's appointment or attending a social gathering, Villagers know they can rely on this service to get where they need to go. However, the service is more than just about transportation; it's about maintaining independence, reducing isolation, and fostering a sense of community among members.

Ensuring the safety and security of both drivers and passengers is a top priority for Pasadena Village. All volunteer drivers undergo thorough background checks before they begin providing rides. They also maintain their own auto insurance and cover their fuel costs. Additionally, drivers must keep their licenses up to date and carry active auto insurance. For added peace of mind, the Village has a secondary insurance plan in place, which can be utilized in limited situations.

One of the key requirements for Villagers who use this service is that they must be able to enter and exit the vehicle unassisted. This ensures that the service remains efficient and that volunteers can focus on providing safe and reliable transportation without the need for additional support. Riders are responsible for any parking fees incurred during their trips, adding a layer of responsibility and mutual respect between drivers and passengers.

Pasadena Village also values the contributions of its volunteer drivers, understanding that they are the heart of the program. Last October, the Village held its first annual recognition meeting for all volunteer drivers, an event designed to express gratitude and build camaraderie among those who give their time and energy to help others. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity for drivers to share experiences, exchange tips, and strengthen the bonds within the volunteer team.

Starting in October, Pasadena Village will introduce a new initiative to further enhance the transportation program: a monthly posting of ride activity. This will provide transparency and allow the Village to track usage patterns, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate the program's successes.

Pasadena Village's transportation service is more than just a ride; it's a lifeline for many members. It enables them to maintain their independence, stay connected with their community, and access essential services. As the Village continues to grow and evolve, the Transportation Team remains committed to serving the needs of its members, ensuring that no Villager is left behind. The dedication of the volunteer drivers, the thoughtful planning of the founders, and the ongoing support from the community all contribute to making Pasadena Village a place where everyone can thrive.