History
The story of Ride Connection is one of evolution and collaboration;
of identifying transportation needs and filling them; of recognizing
opportunities and building upon those opportunities.
The community recognized the need for transportation for the elderly
and persons with disabilities. There was a vision to serve this
frail population with a more adaptable, accessible service than
traditional mass transit allows. Through a citizen committee's recommendation
and with the support of TriMet it was decided that a volunteer program,
Ride Connection, could meet these special needs. Ride Connection
was then incorporated as a private non-profit on May 26, 1988.
Our non-profit para transit service has the following strengths:
- Involvement of volunteers and using collaborative techniques
to maximize cost savings and community support.
- Availability of funding not available to a public agency, i.e.,
foundations, corporations, businesses, individuals and fundraising
events.
- Reduction of management/administrative responsibilities in working
with a large Network of community agencies.
- Serving those without viable transportation alternatives, giving
priority to elderly and persons with disabilities.
- Coordinating transportation services in Clackamas Multnomah,and Washington counties.
- Coordinating system-wide training and safety programs.
- Developing and securing financial, volunteer and equipment resources
for Ride Connection's network.
- Developing and maintaining provider programs.
- Acting as a liaison between funders and community agencies.
Mission
Ride Connection is a non-profit, community service organization
established to link accessible, responsive transportation with
community
needs.
Vision
To create independence and community connections through the gift
of mobility.
Values
- Recognize, nurture and appreciate our staff and volunteers.
- Maintaining collaborative relationships with Network Providers.
- Coordinating system-wide training and safety programs.
- Delivering safe, personalized and accessible door-to-door services.
- Assuring honest, reliable and accountable business relationships.
- Leading by example.
