Kind and gentle, 90-year-old woman is a favorite with volunteers.

Just signed up a new client. ?She is 90 years old, a retired teacher who lives on her own in a mobile home in Fremont. ? Because she has a speech impediment I went to her home to do the initial interview/assessment.? Her name is Myrtle and she learned about VIP Rides from a friend that lives in the same mobile home who had used VIP Rides and was pleased with the service.? Myrtle greeted me at the door with a hug and she led me into her kitchen where she had milk and cookies ready for me.

After explaining the program to her she was eager to set up her first appointment.? She had a doctor’s appointment later in the week and was concerned that she might not have a ride.? I assured her that a volunteer would be available for the appointment. ?After her first ride, Myrtle was delighted with the service and set up two more appointments.? So far, every volunteer that has helped Myrtle would like to do so again.? Her kind and gentle ways are a gift.

Lori Vogel
VIP Rides Coordinator
510-574-2096

With VIP Rides, an active, 82-year-old woman now feels safe and confident about getting out in the community again.

I recently got a call from a man who was looking for a way to help his mom get to her monthly appointments.? After researching transportation options on the Internet, he thought VIP Rides sounded like a good choice.? I explained the program to him and he said it was just what his mom needed.? I then called his mom, Claire, to tell her about the service.? Because she has a slight hearing problem we decided to meet at her Fremont home where she has lived for over 40 years and raised both her children.

While her children now live out of the area, she enjoys good communication with them and finds that they are happy to help her find the resources she needs to continue living independently in her own home.? Her limitations are similar to many women her age, she can no longer drive and finds it difficult to do the simple things she once enjoyed.

After I explained the program to her she didn’t hesitate to get started.? Her first adventure was a trip to the grocery store.? She was so comfortable with the volunteer that after getting home she called and said VIP Rides was just like having a friend take her.

In addition to regular trips to do her shopping, she has also scheduled twice a week physical therapy appointments.? “I now feel safe and and confident about getting out to do I what I need to do,” she says.? “I attribute this to to the VIP Rides program.”

Lori Vogel
VIP Rides Coordinator
510-574-2096