...where volunteers make a difference

Driver Services

RSVP of Dane County Drivers:  It's More Than Just a Ride!

What is Driver Services?

RSVP’s Driver Services Program responds to the transportation needs of Dane County’s older adult residents (60 years and older) who do not have access to other transportation resources such as bus, van, family, and friends. The service is provided by volunteers from the local community/area who use their own vehicle to drive and escort passengers.

We also have a continual need for Home Delivered Meal Drivers in many parts of rural Dane County. Volunteers work through their local Senior Center/Outreach Office. They pick up and deliver meals to older adults who are unable to cook and prepare their own meals. 

What are the Benefits of Being a Driver Services Volunteer and/or Home Delivered Meal Driver?

• Mileage Reimbursement
• Free access to 911 service (beginning in 2002)
• Free excess auto, accident, and personal liability insurance while on assignment
• Personal satisfaction of helping others
• Personal satisfaction of helping out your community and Dane County
• Quarterly newsletter
• Annual Volunteer Recognition
• Annual Safe Driver Fair
• Flexibility to meet your schedule
• Ability to meet new people

What do Driver Services Volunteers and Home Delivered Meal Drivers Receive?

• One-on-one training
• Ongoing staff support and training
• Disabled card use while on assignment (Driver Services Volunteers Only)
• City of Madison map (Driver Services Volunteers only)
• I.D. badge
• Traffic safety material

Who are Our Passengers?

RSVP works closely with Senior Centers/Outreach Offices throughout Dane County and the City of Monona who serve as RSVP Volunteer Stations to provide for this service. Driver Services rides are scheduled through local coordinators. Variations of priorities beyond transporting older adults to medical appointments may differ between communities due to needs and resource availability. Trip priorities are listed below:

1. Drive and escort ambulatory older adults (60 and older) to medical appointment.
2. Drive and escort ambulatory older adults to other personal trips (Depends on driver availability.)
3. Younger ambulatory disabled (under 60) may receive rides only if older adults transportation needs are met. RSVP Volunteer Stations make this determination.

How Do I Get Started?

Driver Services Volunteers are needed in Madison and throughout the Dane County area. Home Delivered Meal Drivers are needed in many parts of rural Dane County. These services enable older adults to remain in their homes as long as possible. If you are a safe driver, willing to use your own vehicle, have personal automobile insurance, and can spare a few hours each week to provide this essential service, we would like to talk to you.  

Please contact your local senior center or call Gene, Driver Services Manager, at (608) 441-7896.