Norfolk County Commissioners Ask for Volunteers for County Veteran Ride Program
August 30, 2022 – Dedham – This week the Norfolk County Commission put out a call for older adult volunteers (55+) for one of its most successful community service program, the Rides for Vets program created by Norfolk County RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) to provide veterans in the County with much needed, free transportation to and from their medical appointments.
Many of the vets that utilize this program are older disabled vets that are no longer able to drive, do not have easy access to public transport and/or cannot afford the cost of alternate transportation. Many of the trip requests are for medical appointments at one of the three area VA hospitals (West Roxbury, Jamaica Plain and Brockton).
“This is a great program which connects seniors who are seeking volunteer opportunities with veterans who have a critical need to get to and from medical appointments.” said Commission Chairman Joseph P. Shea (D-Quincy). “Unfortunately, this need has only grown in recent years, so we are asking seniors looking to make an impact in their communities to consider volunteering.”
RSVP program is funded by the Norfolk County Commissioners and a federal grant from AmeriCorps Seniors. Rides-for-Vets drivers need to be at least 55 years of age. Drivers use their own vehicles and have the option to be reimbursed for travel-related expenses @ $0.40/mile for up to 300 miles per month. Drivers also receive supplemental accident and liability insurance.
“Serving those who served has always been a priority in Norfolk County” said Commissioner Peter H, Collins (D-Milton). “This program is a flexible opportunity to do small acts of service within your community and make a tremendous impact helping out veterans.”
Drivers have the ability to say no to any ride that doesn’t easily work into their schedule. We are looking to add drivers that can actively participate in at least two rides per month. Drivers can access our Assisted Rides website in order to view and self-assign round-trip or one-way rides that fit with their schedule.
Commissioner Richard Staiti (D-Canton) noted that “At RSVP’s annual celebration of volunteers just a few weeks ago we heard firsthand of how enriching the ride program can be for seniors who step in for our veterans when many times no one else can. I encourage any one in our County with the availability to reach out for more information and strongly consider volunteering.”
Seniors interested in this unique, impactful volunteer opportunity should please contact Cris Goldsmith or Robert Pierson at 781-329-5728.
Veterans in need looking for more information on getting a ride can contact the RSVP program at 781-329-5728 extension 1. One week’s notice minimum required, with one ride per week limit, per veteran
Norfolk County RSVP is a community service program that invites individuals 55 and over to provide much needed volunteer service within the County. RSVP works with more than thirty municipal, non-profit and healthcare agencies to recruit and match volunteers with programs that meet community needs. This program is funded by the Norfolk County Commissioners and a grant from Americorps Seniors, an agency created by Congress to foster volunteer service in local communities.
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