Featured Volunteer Opportunity: On the Go Driver - JFSSD
Moving Forward Together

Featured Volunteer Opportunity: On the Go Driver

Volunteers are the Heart of JFS

Provide Rides for Older Adults

Many older adults in our community are no longer able to drive themselves to important medical appointments, visit friends and family, or run errands to the beauty parlor or grocery store. Without access to safe and reliable transportation, simple errands can turn into major life challenges.

You can be part of the solution by becoming a Volunteer Driver with On the Go!

Become an On the Go Volunteer Driver

Questions?

Contact our Volunteer Team at [email protected] or call (858) 637‑3050

“I feel blessed to have found your service. It has made a big difference in my medical and mental care. In the past, I would put off doctor’s visits because I didn’t want to ask a family member or friend to drive me to an appointment, and then wait out in a hot car for an hour or more. I always felt like “a burden”- it’s nice to see the friendly “smiles” on your driver’s faces and to chat a little!”  ‑ Janet

What is On the Go and who does it help?

  • JFS operates the largest volunteer-based driving program in San Diego County with 2,000 + riders, all over the age of 60.
  • Volunteers provide one-way rides, and riders are guaranteed a return ride by either another volunteer or an OTG staff member or ride share.
  • Volunteers use an online scheduling system to choose rides that fit into their schedule and are in the area where they already travel.
  • Ride times are flexible and can be given any time between 7:00am-7:00pm, 7 days per week, and are selected by the volunteer.
  • JFS provides mileage reimbursement at the current maximum rate set by the IRS, as well as secondary insurance.

“I thank all of you so much for providing this service. After my husband died last year, I no longer had a way to get to places I needed to get to. The way you handle the ride/notification makes me feel safe!”  ‑ Cindy

How do I become a Volunteer Driver?

  1. Fill out our Volunteer Interest form, and a Volunteer Coordinator will contact you within 1-2 business days.
  2. Attend a JFS volunteer orientation to learn more about the organization, other volunteer opportunities, and the perks of being a JFS volunteer.  Orientations are available in-person or live via Zoom.  There is also an option to watch a recorded orientation at your convenience if that fits better into your schedule.
  3. To set our volunteers up for success and ensure our riders’ safety,  we ask the following of all volunteers:
    • Be at least 25 years old
    • Complete Fingerprinting and DMV check (both free of charge)
    • Complete Privacy/Security training (online, 30 minutes)
    • Show proof of current car insurance and driver’s license
    • Attend On the Go training with a Volunteer Coordinator (1 hour)
  4. Get started Volunteering!

Driver Testimonials

On the Go Drivers Connect with Their Community

“I love meeting more of my “neighbors” and feeling more connected to my community. The riders are so appreciative. As a former geriatric care manager, I know that transportation can be such a barrier and I love being part of the solution.”

– Kerri, Volunteer Driver

On the Go Volunteer

“I like driving for On the Go because I meet so many interesting people, and I am serving the community.”

– Tricia, Volunteer Driver

“After I retired, a friend suggested that I start driving for On the Go. I love being a volunteer because you make friends, you enjoy yourself, and you go places, and not just to the doctor, you can take them anywhere they need to go.”

– Betty, Volunteer Driver

Interested in Becoming an On The Go Driver?