You might see these Call-A-Ride cars driving around Greenwich all
the time. That’s because they give rides to almost 1,000 ambulatory
seniors every month.
“We give them a free ride, they get out. It’s really great,” said driver
Don Conway.
“A lot we take to doctors appointments, physical therapy. But, we take
them shopping, the the bank, the hairdresser, to visit a friend.
Anywhere they want,” said Lavelle Shields, the President of the organization.
Call-A-Ride President Lavelle Shields considers the organization a lifeline
for some riders. It operates Monday through Friday from about 9 to 5 and
runs entirely on donations.
“We say free transportation for our riders, but many give donations.
That’s how we pay for gas,” said Shields.
The organization owns three insured cars and has about 50 volunteers
drivers. Don Conway has been driving for about four years and says
his favorite part is meeting different people.
“You hear about how they live each day. I don’t think you could read
it in a book, it’s just there,” said Conway.
“It’s really a wonderful thing from a driver point of view. You’re
helping someone in you’re extended neighborhood,” said Shields.
“I take one lady to a hairdresser, and when she comes out I ask her
if she has a hot date. She says, ‘I do, it’s with you,’ and I say
no,” Conway says laughing.
For rides, or to volunteer as a driver, call Call-A-Ride at (203) 661-6633.
