Volunteers are needed throughout Westchester County to provide free rides to older adults, age 60 or more, who reside in Westchester and need help getting to the doctor, shopping mall, hairdresser, the homes of friends and family or a number of other activities that require transportation.

RideConnect, a service administered by Family Services of Westchester (FSW) with support from Westchester County’s Department of Senior Program and Services (DSPS), is an informational, referral and volunteer based transportation program that began in 2010 as a means to provide services to older adults who are no longer driving. The mission of the program is to encourage independence and mobility for seniors by providing exceptional customer service and comprehensive transportation options.

DSPS Commissioner Mae Carpenter said: “Mobility is essential for helping seniors remain independent, stay healthy and be engaged in their community. Not being able to get out can cause many negative side effects and lead to isolation, depression and all sorts of problems.”

To volunteer as a RideConnect driver, individuals must be at least 21 years of age, enjoy working with older adults and have a valid driver’s license. No minimum time commitment is required and volunteers can sign up to drive as little, or as often as their schedule permits.

RideConnect provides hundreds of rides each week and demand for the service continues to increase. Sign up today to help seniors near you get around.

For additional information, to learn more about the program or to get involved as a volunteer, please contact Karen Ganis at (914) 864-0955 or .