A new nonprofit organization is implementing a creative solution to help a select population get around in a city that has yet to agree on a mass transit plan.
Senior Ride Nashville launched in November to connect volunteer drivers with elderly people who no longer drive.
"It's a blessing from heaven that I have this service from people who care about people like me," said rider and Madison resident Celia Bolarte.
Bolarte wrecked her car a few months ago. That, paired with sky high insurance rates, made driving unrealistic, but Bolarte attends classes at 50 Forward several times a week, has doctor's appointments, and needs a way to get to the grocery store.
That's when someone told her about Senior Ride Nashville, and she got paired up with volunteer driver Vicki Williams.
"I have no family here, and I'm in my late 60's," Williams said. "I may need this service one day, so I'm glad it exists."
Right now, Senior Ride Nashville operates in West Nashville and Madison. The organization plans to expand this summer to cover Donelson, Old Hickory, and Hermitage, as well.
In June, they surpassed 1,000 rides - a milestone Executive Director Carrie Brumfield said is about much more than transportation.
"They're making real relationships with their volunteer driver in the process," Brumfield said. "It's a sense of companionship."
If you'd like to get involved with Senior Ride Nashville, head over to their website.
