Northwest Valley Connect provides ride services to seniors 65 and older, persons with disabilities and veterans who live in Surprise, El Mirage, Sun City and Sun City West.

So far in 2021, the volunteer-driven organization has provided more than 11,000 rides.  

The agency’s most urgent volunteer opportunities are in the call center. They are the first contact for ride requestors. They inform callers about transportation resources, help them enroll in the NVC program and book ride requests. Volunteers are requested to provide four hours per week.

“The reward of ending each day, knowing someone can sleep well tonight because they will be able to get where they need to be, is a day well lived,” volunteer Kathy Mindling said. 

Residents who enjoy helping others, puzzle-solving and think good customer service is important are urged to consider volunteering in the NVC call center. Call 623-282-9300 to speak to the volunteer coordinator.

The other half of the transportation service equation is drivers. Having more drivers available allows Northwest Valley Connect to provide more rides. Finding transportation is often difficult for the service community since public transportation in the Northwest Valley Connect’s service area is very sparse.

Editor’s Note: Gail Christianer is Northwest Valley Connect volunteer coordinator.