One Ride Leads to Another: Barbara’s Story
Barbara began volunteering as a driver with Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia in April 2026, after discovering SCNOVA through a simple Google search. It didn’t take long for her generosity to make an impact, and soon, one ride led to another.
Just a few rides into her volunteer journey, Barbara was waiting for a participant at a medical appointment when she struck up a conversation with a woman named Shelby, who was waiting for a cab. As Barbara listened to Shelby describe the challenges she faced getting to and from appointments, she knew exactly how to help—she told her about Shepherd’s Center. The very next day, Shelby called to complete a Participant Application.
Since then, Barbara has driven Shelby to nearly all of her appointments. What started as a chance meeting between two strangers has blossomed into a genuine friendship, built on trust, companionship, and community.
Why Rides Matter More Than You Might Think
Barbara and Shelby’s story isn’t unique in the challenges it highlights. Reliable transportation is one of the most important factors in helping people live independently in the communities they love. Research from the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center shows that nearly 90% of older adults choose to age in place in their own homes and communities—and having accessible, dependable transportation is a key part of making that possible. When driving alternatives are readily available, the transition away from driving becomes far less disruptive to someone’s independence and quality of life.
That’s exactly the gap volunteer drivers like Barbara help fill. A ride to a doctor’s appointment is a connection point, a familiar face, and sometimes, as Barbara and Shelby discovered, the start of a meaningful friendship.
Become Part of the Next Story
This special story had ordinary beginnings. Barbara was simply waiting, the way she had a few times before. But, she noticed something and her openness changed how Shelby is able to live independently. That’s the heart of what we do at Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia: connecting neighbors with neighbors, one ride, one conversation, one act of kindness at a time.
We’re always looking for volunteer drivers who are willing to show up and make a real difference in someone’s life. You don’t need any special experience—just a few hours to spare and a willingness to connect. You might just help someone get to an appointment they’d otherwise struggle to reach. You might also, like Barbara, make a new friend.
Ready to get started? Complete a Volunteer Application today.
And if you know someone in the community who could benefit from our services, or someone looking for a meaningful way to give back, please share this story. Every ride, every referral, and every conversation helps us build a stronger, more connected community.