Volunteers Wanted: Caring Rides
Every Ride Means the World for Local Seniors
Right here in New Hampshire, hundreds of homebound seniors need your help!
CareGivers is seeking volunteer drivers for its Caring Rides program, serving homebound seniors across Greater Manchester, Greater Nashua and the Lakes Region.
Caring Rides is powered by our incredible volunteers, who selflessly offer their time to drive seniors to critical medical appointments, dental visits, dialysis treatments, pharmacy visits, and other essential destinations. Your support doesn't just transport them physically; it lifts their spirits and better connects them to the community.
Flexibility to Fit Your Busy Life
Volunteering is made simple with our flexible opportunities tailored to your schedule, whether you volunteer once a week, once a month, or on an as-needed basis.
A typical round-trip with a client usually takes around an hour of your time, and our only requirements are that you possess a car, a valid driver's license, and a friendly attitude.
Why Volunteer? Seniors are Missing Vital Appointments
93% of CareGivers clients live alone, most away from loved ones and family. Many regularly face isolation and food insecurity.
For them, doing something as simple as getting to an appointment or picking up medication at the local pharmacy is a necessity - but sadly, not an option. Many cannot afford an Uber or other ride services, and public transportation is not a practical option.
In 2023, we've managed to fulfill only 85% of the ride requests from our clients. Sadly, there were over 300 instances when we couldn't match a senior with a volunteer. Imagine not being able to access medical care or buy groceries when you need them most. This is the reality for many seniors, and the numbers are growing.
And now, many more seniors are on the waiting list, meaning we need volunteers more than ever! That's where YOU can come in.
Your Impact: Be a Life-Changer
For these seniors, our amazing network of volunteers is their lifeline, continually proving that having a big heart can make a priceless impact. While providing a ride to a neighbor in need may seem like a small task, its ripple effects are immeasurable:
- Enhanced social connection: Your companionship combats their feelings of isolation and loneliness, fostering their independence and helping them realize they truly are never alone.
- Better access to vital resources: You can ensure they maintain access to medical needs, food and other essentials key to their physical health, emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
- Dignity preserved: Your support enables seniors to age gracefully within their homes for as long as possible.
Please note these are non-paid volunteer opportunities.
The CareGivers, a program of Catholic Charities NH, serves clients in Alton, Amherst, Auburn, Bedford, Candia, Goffstown, Hooksett, Hollis, Hudson, Litchfield, Manchester, Merrimack, Milford, Nashua, and Wolfeboro. Volunteers may reside in communities not listed.
Help Your Elderly Neighbors in Need
“Having someone give me a ride to the doctor is life-changing. The Caring Rides volunteers not only provide me with the help I can't find elsewhere, they become my friends. Their compassion and kindness count so much when there are few people who truly understand us.”
Judy, Caring Rides client.