Fairfield Glade searching for resident volunteers to drive for the Way to Go Transportation Program, a free system for resident seniors.
Resident Services President John Wedgworth said volunteers provide a vital service to the residents that can no longer drive. Wedgworth said the Way to Go Transport Program was established nine years ago to assist residents who either could not drive or did not feel comfortable driving.
“Well obviously we have residents that are aging out of being able to drive,” Wedgworth said. “And some people arent comfortable driving, so that’s the need there for that. And these are all volunteer drivers. They volunteer their own time and personal vehicles to do this”
Wedgworth said the program answers call requests from the retirement community, asking to be transported to a location within the Cumberland County area. Wedgworth said the program transports residents to doctors appointments and to run errands.
“It provides a vital service for our residents,” Wedgworth said.
Wedgworth said the community screens drivers and residents, setting an appointment to confirm they are Fairfield Glade residents. Wedgworth said charges are involved with the process, as the ride request program costs money to operate.
Wedgworth said there are 50 drivers that currently own vehicles. Wedgworth said drivers transported residents 18, 215 miles.
Wedgworth said Cookeville trips only happen for medical reasons.