|
NV Rides July 2021 Newsletter
|
|
|
|
|
|
A note from the NV Rides program manager
|
During the summer of 2014, I was presented with an opportunity to develop an innovative solution to help non-driving seniors and adults with disabilities access reliable transportation to their activities of daily living. I had been working within the older adult services framework in a variety of forms for many years, but never in transportation. Once I wrapped my head around the idea, I was sold.
We launched the program in October of 2014 with four partner organizations, and today NV Rides is a network of 15 community-based organizations providing volunteer driver services throughout Northern Virginia.
NV Rides was an idea sparked from the Fairfax County Government Health Department, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, in collaboration with members, advocates and stakeholder organizations concerned about creating an age-friendly Fairfax County, and to prepare for an anticipated dramatic growth in the 65+ demographic over the next 15 years.
I have learned so much over the last seven years and knowing the impact that the NV Rides program has had on vulnerable adults in our community is what gets me out of bed in the morning. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our community partners, stakeholders, and my staff in building, developing, and growing this crucial program. My sincere thanks to everyone who has worked so hard to make this program a reality - from volunteers to administrators Advisory Board members.
And so it is with mixed emotions that I have chosen to step down as the NV Rides manager. I am proud of all I and my partners have accomplished, and I have made the decision to pursue other opportunities. In the meantime, I am enjoying the slow pace of summer and spending time with my family.
|
I am happy to report that Tom Eversole, long time NV Rides Advisory Board member and active volunteer with multiple Shepherd’s Centers in Northern Virginia, will be stepping in as interim program manager until a permanent replacement is named.
|
|
|
|
Appearance on "This is Getting Old" podcast with Melissa BPhD
|
|
Earlier this month we recorded a podcast with Melissa Batchelor, Phd, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN on her podcast “This is Getting Old”. The interview sums up our program and provides resources for non-driving adults in our community. Please share this with anyone who may benefit from learning more about volunteer driving.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
