Dear Friends,

Since 1985, we've been providing transportation and other support services to seniors in the Austin area. While our mission is to provide reliable transportation, our passion lies in fostering genuine human connections. We believe that transportation is more than just a service - it's a bridge that connects seniors to the people, places, and opportunities that enrich their lives. We strive to not only help older adults reach their destinations, but also open the door to meaningful interactions, social engagement, and a sense of belonging. Our comitment goes beyond simply getting seniors from point A to point B; we work to ensure they feel connected, valued, and supported in every aspect of their lives. 

Without reliable transportation, seniors are at an increased risk of isolation, declining health, and a diminished quality of life. Routine activities such as medical appointments, grocery shopping, and social engagements become increasingly difficult, leading to adverse outcomes such as missed medical care, poor nutrition, and heightened feelings of loneliness and depression.

In 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released an advisory calling attention to the public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection in our country. It states the physical health consequences of poor or insufficient connection include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia. Our organization is dedicated to providing a variety of social opportunities designed to foster meaningful interactions and a sense of belonging. These include social gatherings where seniors can engage with peers, field trips that offer new experiences and adventures, and regular friendly calls and visits that provide companionship and emotional support. Our clients often express heartfelt gratitude through letters and phone calls, assuring us that we are making a meaningful difference in their lives.
 

But we know we have a lot of work to do.  By 2030, all members of the Baby Boomer generation will be aged 65 and older. This demographic shift will significantly increase the proportion of seniors leading to greater demand for services tailored to older adults, including healthcare and transportation. DASATX is already seeing an increase in demand for transportation services among the senior population in our community. And while our existing resources are effective, they are stretched thin as we strive to meet the needs of this rapidly aging demographic. The situation is especially dire in underserved and low-income areas, where access to transportation is severely limited.
 

With your help and support, we'll be able to reach all older adults who are in need of the services we provide. 
 

For more information on our services, volunteering, or any other questions, please contact Jill Skinner at director@driveasenioratx.org.
 

From all of us at Drive a Senior ATX, thank you for your generous support. 
 

Warmest regards,

Sharon Hall 
Champion of Drive a Senior ATX