Help a Senior Thrive - Provide a Ride!

Many seniors want to continue living independently in their cherished homes, but when they can no longer drive, they are unable to get themselves to doctor’s appointments, go grocery shopping, or even visit friends and family. This loss of independence can lead to frustration, isolation and loneliness.

Together, we can help seniors stay connected to loved ones and maintain their health and independence by providing rides to their vital appointments and errands. Jewish Family Service's (JFS) flexible On-the-Go, Rides and Smiles program allows you to provide rides (and a smile!) for seniors when it’s convenient for your schedule, and in the parts of town where you already travel. Volunteers provide one-way rides (like Uber or Lyft), and seniors are guaranteed a return ride by our program staff or another volunteer. JFS volunteers say they cherish the connection and relationships they often form with their riders. They love getting to know their neighbors and giving back to their community in a meaningful way! JFS provides secondary insurance as well as mileage reimbursement.

Opportunity Requirements & Important Notes

• Time Commitment: JFS asks volunteers to provide at least 2 rides per month.  Rides can be scheduled 7 days per week any time between 7:00 am - 7:00pm, whatever works best for your schedule!

• Onboarding Process: Volunteers must do a background check, have a clean driving record and show proof of a valid driver's license and car insurance. Volunteers attend an orientation with JFS Volunteer Engagement staff and will have a designated Coordinator help them through the onboarding steps. There is some additional privacy/security training and other On the Go trainings. The onboarding process can be mostly done online and can take as little as a two weeks depending on how quickly a volunteer provides their information and completes training. Get started today, fill out the volunteer application.

• Required Skills/Experience: Good driver and ability to operate their web-based scheduling system.

• Desired Skills/Experience: Looking for folks who enjoy connecting with their older neighbors while providing them rides

• Physical Requirements: This project is able to make accommodations for individuals with physical limitations.

• Attire: Casual, comfortable clothing

• Note: Their volunteers love being On the Go drivers! Here's a quote from Kerri:  "I love meeting more of my “neighbors” and feeling more connected to my community. The riders are so appreciative. As a former geriatric care manager, I know that transportation can be such a barrier and I love being part of the solution.”

Jewish Family Service of San Diego

Jewish Family Service partners with people of all backgrounds to build stable and dignified lives. Together, we create a stronger and healthier community where everyone can thrive.