The Driver – Volunteer Newsletter – August 2025

We are so excited to welcome Andrea as our new Strategic Development Director. Andrea first got to know Neighbor Ride behind the wheel, as a volunteer driver and grant writer, and now brings her passion and expertise to further advance our mission. She has experience in philanthropy and the nonprofit sector, ranging from external relations and fundraising to board management, member services, and events. She believes in building community and bringing people together for a good cause, and she’s an avid gardener.

In July, the Maryland Department of Aging released Longevity Ready Maryland, its first multisector plan to address the needs of Maryland’s aging population. Neighbor Ride has been part of the longevity plan for Howard County for over 20 years, enabling residents aged 60 and above to age in place and remain an active part of our community.

Carmel Roques, Secretary of the Maryland Department on Aging says, “On behalf of the Maryland Department of Aging (MDOA), I am pleased to announce the launch of Longevity Ready Maryland (LRM), the state’s first multisector plan for aging designed to enhance the wellbeing and quality of life of all Marylanders as we age. Using the framework of longevity creates the opportunity to plan for both the individual and broader societal impact of living longer lives.”

Thank you to all our volunteers and supporters who have helped Neighbor Ride be ahead of the curve!

Return to School

Thanks to all of our educators and school support professionals who helped drive this summer. Please remember to update your schedule in the portal.

Reminder: The 17th is Magnet Day

Our data shows that the car magnets are a wonderful recruitment tool for Neighbor Ride. 

On the 17th of each month, we ask that all volunteers display their magnet on the cars throughout the day. 

Malia Hall

Debra Carr

Jan Perriens

Maria Danek

Dave Murphy

Clare Brooks

Michael Gardner

We are saddened by the passing of passenger Harriet Freeman. Our thoughts are with their family and friends at this time.

Check out our latest stats from July. We appreciate our volunteers for helping us be out there on the roads each and every day for our clients! 

• Rides requests filled: 1,548
• Rides cancelled for no driver: 98
• Ride Unfilled rate: 9.4%
• Clients served: 251
• Different volunteers providing a ride: 158

20 Cars for 20 Years! We accept all vehicles of any age or condition. Anyone can donate, no matter what state you live in!