RideConnect Program Exceeds Expectations

Primarily funded by the Ohio Department of Transportation, our RideConnect volunteer driver program has exceeded expectations in its first three years of its existence. Starting with one driver in July 2021, the program now has 25 drivers providing rides to essential appointments, work, and other destinations. Drivers logged 93,341 miles from July 2021 to the end of September 2024, providing more than 3,000 rides and spending over 4,400 hours serving others. Volunteers are trained, use their own vehicles, and are compensated for mileage.

Seeing gaps in transportation services, especially in rural areas, Michelle Caserta-Bixler and Heather Robison developed the idea for RideConnect. What they didn’t realize is that the satisfaction the volunteers get almost outweighs the benefit to the clients. “The drivers feel connected to the individuals they transport,” said Robison. “Often a driver will ask if I have heard from someone they transported who hasn’t requested a ride for a while. They really care about the people they meet.”

“Everyone I come in contact with has something they want to share,” said driver Dan from Auglaize County. “They share family history, what they did for a living, and other things. Mostly they just need someone to talk to. Being a good listener makes for a good driver. I really like what I do.”

John from Montgomery County, who used RideConnect to travel to Ohio State University for medical treatments, wrote, “Thanks to you and God, I’m healthy. I will never forget the angels at Catholic Social Services.”

“RideConnect fits into my lifestyle and my idea of paying it forward,” said driver Carol of Montgomery County. “By helping others, I grow as an individual too.”

The continued success of RideConnect is dependent on the generous volunteers who give their time. “Providing the service is tied closely to volunteer availability,” said Robison. “As demand grows, we must continue to recruit more drivers to do this important work.”

Maybe you have a few hours a month to help a neighbor in need.  If you are interested in learning more about becoming one of our volunteer drivers, please contact Michelle Caserta-Bixler or Heather Robison at 937.575.7111 or 1.833.289.0227 ext.1195.