A Scottsdale nonprofit is now collaborating with the city to provide rides to local passengers in need.

Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Services — known as STARS — which caters to the community of individuals with IDD, is a new service provider offering transportation services to senior citizens in Scottsdale that are enrolled in the city’s “Cab Connection” Voucher Program.

These individuals can now schedule rides from STARS to and from the Wheels to Meals program, dialysis, and medical appointments. Passengers in need of a ride can use their respective pink vouchers when booking travel to and from senior centers, according to a press release.

When asked how he felt about what this partnership and program will mean to STARS and the people it will help to serve, STARS’ Facilities and Mobility Innovation Manager Justin MacGregor said, “This is a great opportunity for STARS to help out the seniors in our community with their transportation needs” and that “We are ready and willing to assist whenever the need arises.”

With the program newly launched, the STARS transportation department is now booking rides from eligible passengers from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday with 2 p.m. being the time to be picked up.

Calls will be answered to take reservations at 480-237-6609 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with STARS asking for riders to call at least two hours in advance, best the day before, to schedule pick-up times. They also have vehicles that can accommodate wheelchair service; be sure to mention this if needed.

Celebrating its 50th year anniversary in 2023, STARS prides itself on innovating through collaboration with others in the community to be a resource in building a stronger foundation.