Regaining Independence
“As you get older you are less independent,” said Bob True. “And I know my wife, one of her objections to moving here was ‘I don’t want to lose my independence.’”
One way Bob and his wife gained back some of that independence was through Ride Assist Naperville.
The nonprofit provides dependable transportation for seniors in the greater Naperville area, to get to and from medical appointments.
Volunteering to Drive
“I get to meet a lot of new, interesting people who have a lot to share with me,” said RAN volunteer Robin Williams. “And it’s pretty smooth and easy. You just call them up, show up, drive them to the doctor, wait, and then come back. I get to read lots of library books, so it works.”
Williams has been a volunteer with RAN since its inception over two and a half years ago.
“The drivers we’ve met so far are all very positive and make you feel good,” added True. “Particularly Robin, she’s just like a good friend.”
The 2000th Ride
And her drive with Bob marks the program’s 2000th.
“Bob is a great rider,” said Williams “He’s very with it, he’s always on time, and very pleasant.”
More About RAN
RAN is designed for seniors 60 and over who can no longer drive themselves.
The only cost is a requested $12 donation per round-trip ride.
Naperville News 17’s Christine Lena reports.
