Local Nonprofit Helps Seniors Stay Independent with Free Rides

By Kaydence Smith, Staff Writer

NV Rides provides an avenue for volunteers to help older and disabled adults with essential transportation needs and social connections. Photo contributed by NV Rides

A Northern Virginia nonprofit is helping older adults and people with disabilities stay mobile and connected by providing transportation to essential destinations. NV Rides, founded in 2014, began as an initiative of the Fairfax County Health Department to address gaps in transportation for seniors.

“Most rides provided are to doctors’ offices,” said rides coordinator Janice Sokol, noting that services extend beyond health care. Riders also rely on the program for everyday needs such as grocery shopping and trips to the library.

Since its founding, NV Rides has grown into a coordinated network of 15 community partners, including churches, community centers and volunteer groups. Together, they provide transportation and other supportive services across a broad region, from Alexandria through Fairfax County and into Prince William and Loudoun counties.

The organization’s mission is to create a centralized, coordinated network of volunteer driver programs that helps older adults maintain independence, reduce isolation and access essential services.

The program also supports social connection. In addition to transportation, some partner organizations offer services such as yard work and friendly visits.

“People go and just converse with somebody who might not have anybody else around,” Sokol said. “It really depends on the agency we’re talking about.”

The need for reliable transportation is especially significant for those who no longer drive. In a recent NV Rides survey, one rider said, “I don’t have to worry about driving myself; the driver is great.” Another commented, “It allows me to keep going to the library and grocery store without paying for an Uber or taxi.”

As demand continues to grow, the organization is focused on expanding its network and reaching more people in need. “The plan for the future is to increase our drivers and, of course, increase our riders,” Sokol said. “But we can’t provide rides unless we have the drivers.”

She added that increasing the number of partner organizations would help NV Rides fulfill more ride requests and extend service into areas it does not currently reach.

Community members can get involved in a variety of ways, from volunteering as drivers to assisting with outreach at local events. To become a driver, visit nvrides.org. To volunteer in other ways, visit volunteer.thej.org/

Above all, NV Rides aims to raise awareness about its services and its role in supporting independence. For many in Northern Virginia, that support is already making everyday life easier.