Care Cars Schedules Recruitment Program

Care Cars for Elders, a program providing transportation for elderly people to medical and other essential service appointments, will hold a communitywide, volunteer recruitment on Monday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Corbin Community Center, 827 W. Cleveland.

The program, sponsored by the Spokane Community Mental Health Center, assists elderly people unable to use other methods of transportation.

Last year 30 volunteers drove 27,000 miles meeting the needs of more than 250 elderly people. However, more than twice that number of requests are received each year through the Community Mental Health Center’s Elder Services, and more volunteers are needed.

Volunteers must be at least 19 years old, have a valid Washington state driver’s license, a good driving record, a mechanically sound vehicle and insurance.

Drivers are reimbursed for mileage, and a variety of workshops and retreats are offered throughout the year to keep volunteers informed and motivated.

Current volunteers include retirees and students interested in careers with the elderly, said Sandra Bogdanski, volunteer specialist.