May/June Volunteer Spotlight
Volunteer Driver John fulfills a key role at LARSO by driving local seniors to out-of-town medical appointments.
Our Volunteer Ride program is an important option for meeting the transportation needs of seniors in our community who require transportation outside of Los Alamos for medical appointments. We sat down with one of our long time Volunteer Drivers, John, to learn more about the role and find out why he continues donating his time to the Senior Activity Centers.
What inspired you to start volunteering with us?
John: “I've volunteered for a few other places over the years, I thought this would be a great way to meet new people, and learn the history of Los Alamos.”
Can you share a memorable experience or moment from your time volunteering?
John: “Since becoming a volunteer, I've met many people who have the same interests as myself. I gave a few rides to one particular gentleman, and he invited me to Christmas dinner with him and his wife. I attended and we had a great time. I'm happy to say we are still great friends.”
How do you feel your work is making a difference in our community?
John: “Unfortunately, many of us aren't able to get to the places we need to go. Since volunteering for LARSO, I have been able to make a difference in people's lives and well-being by getting them to places that they otherwise could not.”
What would you say to someone considering volunteering with us?
John: “It's a great feeling to be able to give back and help others in an important way. It's a great way to meet people and learn more about our community.”
How has volunteering affected you personally?
John: “I've made several new, close friends and accomplished my goal to learn more about our community and the people that live in Los Alamos.
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More about the Volunteer Rides Program
The Volunteer Rides program offers a number of benefits to our members:
Safe and comfortable transportation to medical appointments;
An opportunity for socialization between the driver and senior;
Services tailored to the needs of the rider;
The volunteer and vehicle stay with the rider eliminating concerns
of being stranded at a destination.
Volunteers are provided mileage reimbursement at the federal rate (.70/mile), as well as lunch money ($20 meal stipend).
To learn more or sign up, call Volunteer/Transportation Coordinator Cameron at 505-662-8922.