Lima Seeks Volunteer Chaperones for Free Ride Program

Getting to a doctor's appointment shouldn't feel like climbing a mountain, but for many older adults and people with disabilities, it does.

Area Agency on Aging 3 in Lima, Ohio is launching TrustedRiders on March 1, a free program that pairs trained volunteers with people who need a little extra help getting around. These aren't just ride-alongs. Chaperones stay with riders from their front door to their destination and back again, whether that's a medical appointment, grocery store, or anywhere else they need to go.

The program is now recruiting volunteers to become TrustedRiders chaperones. Volunteers go through professional screening, background checks, and training to help them understand mobility needs and provide calm, respectful support.

Miranda van Rooyen, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program Director, sees something special in this kind of service. "Seeing how much one individual's act of service and kindness can impact another individual is a beautiful thing," she said. "Volunteers are individuals that don't expect anything in return. Just seeing the support they are providing is gift enough."

Sunny's Take

Sometimes the simplest acts create the biggest impact. Having someone walk beside you through a confusing hospital hallway or wait with you at a bus stop transforms an anxious experience into a manageable one. For volunteers, it's a few hours of their time. For riders, it's independence, dignity, and the confidence to stay connected to their community.

The service is free for anyone enrolled in Area Agency on Aging 3 programs, plus anyone over 60 or living with a disability at any age.

Anyone interested in becoming a TrustedRiders chaperone can contact Miranda van Rooyen at 419-204-4303 or mvanrooyen@psa3.org, or Shelby Poling at 567-712-1902 or spoling@psa3.org. The program launches in just one week.