April is National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate the millions of people who give their time to strengthen their communities. For many older adults, volunteering isn’t just a way to help others; it’s also an opportunity to stay active, meet new people, and maintain a sense of purpose.
However, transportation can sometimes become a barrier for seniors or people with disabilities who want to volunteer but no longer drive. That’s where reliable transportation solutions like Wanda can help make it easier to stay connected and involved.
Here’s how seniors are using Wanda to continue giving back at any age.
Supporting Local Food Banks
When Mary, 80, retired from her career as a school librarian, she wanted to spend her free time helping others. She began volunteering twice a week at a local food bank, helping sort donations and assemble meal boxes for families in need.
After she stopped driving last year, Mary worried she might have to give up volunteering. Instead, she started using Wanda to schedule rides to and from the food bank. Now, she still volunteers every Tuesday and Thursday morning, and enjoys chatting with other volunteers during her shift.
Reliable transportation helps Mary continue doing something she loves while supporting her community.
Reading to Children at the Library
For 78-year-old Robert, volunteering is about sharing his passion for reading. Once a week, he visits his local library to participate in a children’s reading program.
Using Wanda, Robert schedules a ride that gets him to the library in time for story hour. The kids love hearing him read—and Robert says the experience gives him just as much joy as it does the children.
Helping Animals Find Their Forever Homes
Susan, 72, spends two afternoons each week at a local animal shelter helping socialize dogs and greet potential adopters.
Because the shelter is across town, transportation used to be a challenge. With Wanda, Susan can reliably get to her volunteer shift without worrying about parking, traffic, or asking family members for a ride.
Spending time with the animals keeps her active and brings a smile to her face every day she volunteers.
The Benefits of Volunteering for Seniors
Volunteering offers many benefits for older adults, including:
- Staying socially connected
- Maintaining a sense of purpose
- Keeping both the mind and body active
- Building new friendships
- Supporting meaningful causes
Whether it’s helping at a food pantry, mentoring students, assisting at a hospital, or volunteering at a local nonprofit, there are countless opportunities to make a difference.
Let Wanda Help You Get There
Transportation shouldn’t stand in the way of doing something meaningful. Wanda makes it easy for seniors to schedule reliable rides to volunteer opportunities, community events, and other activities that bring fulfillment and connection.
This National Volunteer Month, consider how you might give back to your community—and let Wanda help you get there.
Book your next ride with Wanda by calling 855-735-1222 or by using our online portal!