Mobility Matters is looking for people that are willing and able to give a little time each month to a senior in their community or a disabled veteran to take them someplace they can’t get to, like their doctor appointment or the grocery store. They need rides.
Mobility Matters’ mission is to provide free door-through-door transportation when faced with necessary appointments or errands. Volunteer drivers will escort them to their appointment and remain with them until the errand or appointment ends and bring them home.
Qualified Volunteers only need to be available and have the option to accept a specific transportation need if it fits their schedule. Once a week, volunteers will receive an email of a list of all the ride requests, times and destinations for the next week. Volunteers assign themselves a ride or two. Then a scheduler will make contact and give the volunteer driver the full information.
Run by CEO Elaine Welch, 75, Mobility Matters is the only countywide free door through door volunteer driver program in Contra Costa County.
“Mobility equals independence. We have to get out and get the things we need in our community or our society puts them away in an institution of some kind. We’re trying to prevent that.” She passionately states.
Mobility Matters needs more volunteer drivers in all communities in the county. Drivers must be between the ages of 25-75, have a valid driver’s license with an excellent driving record, a crime-free background…and a safe vehicle.
“These are people who’ve given to us. They have such value, such wisdom, such love. We tend to isolate older people and expect them somehow fend for themselves, and it doesn’t work that way. So, let’s give them a little help.”