Who Will Drive Miss Daisy?...
We all remember that wonderful movie,
Driving Miss Daisy
, which
starred Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman. In that poignant film,
Freeman played Hoke Colburn, who was Daisy’s personal chauffeur.
Unfortunately, very few of us can afford the luxury of hiring our own
driver. That’s where Ride Connection steps in to provide a most valu-
able community service.
Since its founding in 1988, Ride Connection has provided more than
one million rides to tens of thousands of people. The success of our
program hinges on partnership. We enjoy key affiliations within the
communities we serve, including vital funding sources, hundreds of
outreach volunteers, and professional Ride Connection staff members
and providers.
One significant development this year was the initiation of the North/Northeast RideAbout shuttle
which started in May 2004. Since then, rides have averaged about 1,000 trips per month. Outreach
efforts are gradually persuading more individuals to use RideAbout for their shopping, medical and
recreational needs.
During the fiscal year, Ride Connection provided 13,328 Job Access rides, an increase of 453 from
last year, despite severe winter weather reducing ride totals during the third quarter. The purchase of
two Job Access buses in December 2003 and negotiating additional
shared-commute rides in rural areas reduced the cost per ride.
During fiscal year 2003-04 Mobility Support Services made innovative and
collaborative partnerships among TriMet, Ride Connection and other or-
ganizations to assist older adults and people with disabilities to travel inde-
pendently. Safely accessing fixed route bus service, light rail and other indi-
vidually appropriate transportation options are paramount to true independ-
ence.
We are continually planning and implementing in-
novative services so we can ensure that someone
will always be there to drive “Miss Daisy.”
Special points of interest:
- Our community-based “at-large”
providers increased rides from
162,324 to 163,866. The largest
increase for a provider was East
County Ministries.
- Provided 13,328 Job Access
rides, compared to 12,875 the
previous year.
- Clark County U-Ride provided
2,561 rides during the year, ex-
ceeding our United Way goal by
more than 500.
- Since June 30, 2003, we have
approved 183 new drivers for a
total of 685 active drivers and 18
concierges as of June 30, 2004.
Inside this issue:
Linking Accessible Transportation 2
For Riders...
2
& Through Partnerships
2
Meeting Community Needs 3
Through Leadership...
4
& Funding
4
Moving Forward
4
Insert
Ride Connection Donors
Insert
Annual Report, Financial Review
www.rideconnection.org
Ride Connection, Inc.
Annual Report 2004
pg_0002
Page 2
& Through Partnerships...
We are fortunate and grateful to be associated with many excellent organizations who believe as
we do and who go above and beyond to ensure passenger and driver safety. We are committed to
continually build on our good reputation and good name by adhering to strict safety standards,
while providing top-of-the-line customer service.
On page 3, we’ve listed our current partners as we begin fiscal year 2004-05.
Ride Connection, Inc.
Today, technology plays an ever-important role in enhancing and expanding our
services. Two software programs in particular, BlackBaud Raiser’s Edge and
RouteMatch TS, give our staff members important advantages in planning,
scheduling and time management.
Raiser’s Edge is our new data collection, fund raising, volunteer management,
event planning and training software. Raiser’s Edge ably replaces our previous
driver and training database. RouteMatch TS serves as the service depart-
ment's scheduling and transportation system. Both of these software packages
are enabling Ride Connection to further increase its efficiency.
In addition, Ride Connection has invested in a Data Utility that will integrate seamlessly with the
new database software. This will enable Ride Connection to generate a multitude of reports to
ease the reporting processes for Ride Connection and its network of providers.
Of course, our most important asset continues to be people—namely, our professional Ride Con-
nection staff and our many wonderful volunteers and providers.
The combination of technology, people, and dedication continues to drive our mission—and our
tens of thousands of riders. With your continued support, we can make sure that those in need of
transportation services will continue to receive them.
Linking Accessible Transportation
Elaine Wells
Executive Director
For Riders...
During fiscal year 2003-04, the Ride Connection network provided 295,445 rides, an increase of
9,288 over the previous fiscal year. This increased de-
mand is significant. Recent research indicates that the
majority of us will outlive our ability to drive, a clear sign
that we will need substantially more resources in the fu-
ture to meet mobility needs.
The 2003-04 customer service survey was a great suc-
cess, 97% of customers said our transportation service
met their needs. One appreciative rider added:
“It gives me a feeling of pride and freedom to be able, at my age,
to shop for food, etc. and keep doctor’s appointments and not be
a burden to family and friends.”
Ride Connection staff, Susan and Julie , training
Lynn how to utilize other modes of transportation as
part of the Mobility Support Services program.
pg_0003
During the year, we developed a volunteer recruitment strategic plan,
coordinated volunteer recruitment efforts, and created an in-house
volunteer program, as well as an infrastructure for a volunteer travel
training program.
During 2003-04, Ride Connection facilitated and conducted training
sessions for 539 drivers and staff members. These sessions included
Mobility Awareness and Assistance Program, defensive driving, vehi-
cle orientation, and road tests.
Ride Connection also trained 60 individuals from various non-
provider agencies. Two non-provider agencies requested and re-
ceived dedicated trainings for their staff.
In addition, the Walk Safely Pedestrian program was inspired by con-
versations in defensive driving class regarding the safety of pedestri-
ans. The curriculum was designed with a focus on the older adult pe-
destrian. The class addresses the health benefits of walking, per-
ceived barriers to walking, risks faced by older adult walkers, and
what older adults can do to maximize their safety when walking.
Mobility Support Services grew from its infancy into an up and com-
ing star during fiscal year 2003-04. Look for big things to come from
Mobility Support Services in the near future.
Mobility Support Services accomplished the following:
•
Secured funding through the STF discretionary program. TriMet
provided the 50% match requirement.
•
Established a ridership committee that includes members of the
community, consumers, transit representatives and agency pro-
fessionals. Committee members help implement and coordinate
the Mobility Support Services program.
•
Initiated easy trip-planning assistance. All calls for transportation
assistance go through the Ride Connection central service num-
ber. Service representatives guide individuals through available
resources and options. This personalized service enables riders
to choose the best options for their trips.
•
In addition, Ride Connection began developing curriculum stan-
dards for travel training services in the tri-county area.
•
Research was conducted to establish standards and policies for a
volunteer travel training program.
Meeting Community Needs
Page 3
The following agencies receive
financial and operational support
from Ride Connection as partner
agencies:
Clackamas County
- Albertina Kerr Centers
- Edwards Center
Clackamas County Senior
Transportation Consortium
- Canby Adult Center
- Clackamas County Mental
Health
- Estacada Community Center
- Gladstone Senior Center
- Hoodland Senior Center
- Lake Oswego Adult
Community Center
- Milwaukie Center
- Molalla Senior Center
- Pioneer Community Center
- Sandy Senior Center
- Transportation Reaching
People
Clark County
- Catholic Community Services
Multnomah County
- African American Chamber of
Commerce
- American Red Cross,
Oregon Trail Chapter
- David’s Harp
- Friendly House
- LifeWorks Northwest
- Metropolitan Family Services -
Project Linkage
- Northwest Pilot Project
- Northwest Portland Ministries
- East Multnomah County
Ministries U-Ride
- Portland Impact
- Providence ElderPlace
- Urban League of Portland
Washington County
- American Red Cross,
Oregon Trail Chapter
- Community Services, Inc.
- Metro West
- Pacificab
- Tuality Healthcare
Annual Report 2004
pg_0004
Page 4
Board of
Directors
2003 - 2004
In the coming year we will gather information and carefully examine the status of services region-
wide, coordinate discussions among our Network providers, TriMet and Ride Connection, and pro-
pose models for improved service. We intend to identify creative and innovative ways to improve
customer service and efficiency.
Mobility Support Services will implement all aspects of our plan, including: personalized trip plan-
ning, consumer education and outreach, fixed-route vehicle familiarization services, volunteer travel
training program, specialized one-on-one travel training, and ongoing support and training for pro-
fessionals that serve older adults and people living with disabilities.
Moving Forward
A major portion of our funding is provided by TriMet and the Oregon Depart-
ment of Transportation. We are very grateful for this funding. At the same
time, we are trying to diversify our funding base so there is a broad mix of
public and private funding.
In October 2003, we submitted Special Transportation Funds (STF) discre-
tionary proposals for fiscal years 2004-05 and 2005-06 to fund projects for
computer hardware and software; a systems administrator; replacement vehi-
cles; new vehicles for Port City Development, Edwards Center, Urban League and Portland Impact;
Title XIX Waivered Non-Medical Transportation; Operational Funding for Portland Impact; Mobility
Support Services; and North/Northeast shuttle operations and three vehicles for a total of
$1,687,179 for the two year period.
In March 2004, we submitted STF formula proposals for fiscal year 2004-05 on behalf of 16 subcon-
tractors, the Washington County U-Ride program, and Ride Connection totaling $1,266,788.
In April 2004, we submitted a proposal to TriMet for volunteer supported and client-based services,
King City and Gateway Shuttles, and Cherry Blossom Services. A best and final offer was accepted
for $780,801.
New funding agencies include SWIFT, Portland General Electric, Spirit Mountain Community Fund,
Wessinger Foundation, Fred Meyer, Bland Foundation, Wells Fargo and Samuel S. Johnson.
Although, there will always be funding challenges, we know these challenges stem from a desire to
meet our stated mission. Our biggest challenge is ensuring that people understand the importance
of our services and how they can help through their donations.
& Funding
Robert Ueland,
President
David (Dave) Raphael,
Vice President
Leslie Clark,
Treasurer
Patty Brost,
Secretary
Justin Berlureau
Jan Campbell
Nancy Harp
Dick Jones
Julie Kennedy
Ken Nitta
Bobbie Nunn
Carolyn Rundorff
Ron Thompson
Rosy Vu
Through Leadership...
Ride Connection is directed by a group of dedicated volunteer board mem-
bers, who generously donate their time and talents to our organization. We
salute Robert Ueland for serving as board president during fiscal year 2003-
04.
We would like to thank the following outgoing board members: Justin Ber-
lureau and Jan Campbell.
pg_0005
RIDE CONNECTION, INC.
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION and
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
For the year ended June 30, 2004 (with comparative totals for 2003)
2004
2003
Assets
Current Assets
2,045,795
$
1,956,734
$
Property and Equipment - Net of Accumulated Deprec 1,564,293
1,362,170
Lease Deposit
4,621
4,621
Total Assets
3,614,709
$
3,323,525
$
Liabilities & Net Assets
Current Liabilities
397,570
$
270,434
$
Net Assets
Unrestricted - General Operating
493,138
397,181
Unrestricted - Property & Equipment
155,260
45,006
Temporarily Restricted
2,568,741
2,610,904
Total Net Assets
3,217,139
3,053,091
Total Liabilities & Net Assets
3,614,709
$
3,323,525
$
Revenue & Support
Government Grants and Contracts
3,338,149
$
3,178,427
$
Grants and Foundation Support
116,274
89,429
Contributions
73,887
141,714
Program Service Fees
10,071
11,748
Gain (loss) on Disposal of Assets
10,805
16,312
Interest Income
9,097
14,026
Miscellaneous Income
2,054
1,785
Total Revenue & Support
3,560,337
$
3,453,441
$
Expenses
Program Service
2,976,631
$
2,877,044
$
Management & General
348,556
295,826
Fundraising
71,102
46,039
Total Expenses
3,396,289
3,218,909
Increase in Net Assets
164,048
234,532
Net Assets at Beginning of Year
3,053,091
2,818,559
Net Assets at End of Year
3,217,139
$
3,053,091
$
*Accompanying notes are an integral part of financial statements and are available upon request
pg_0006
RIDE CONNECTION, INC.
SOURCE OF REVENUE AND SUPPORT
FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2004
Gain (loss ) on
Disposal of
Assets
0. 3%
Grants and
Foundat ion
Support
3.3%
Contributi ons
2.1%
Program
S ervice F ees
0.3%
Inte rest Inco me
0.3%
Government
Grants &
Contracts
93.8%
Mis cellaneous
Inco me
0.1%
RIDE CONNECTION, INC.
DISTRIBUTION OF EXPENSES
FOR THE 12 MONTHS ENDED
JUNE 30, 2004
Program
Services
88%
Management
and General
10%
Fundraising
2%
198,341
236,087
248,229
286,157
295,445
0
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
300,000
1999 - 2000
2000 - 2001
2001 - 2002
2002 - 2003
2003 - 2004
Years
pg_0007
PATRON
($5,000 and above)
Fred Meyer
Oregon Community
Foundation
Portland General Electric
Theresa Gregor
Spirit Mountain Community
Fund
The Bland Family
Foundation
United Way Of The
Columbia- Willamette
EXECUTIVE CIRCLE
($2,500 – $4,999)
American Cancer Society
The Samuel S Johnson
Foundation
STEWARD
($1,000 - $2,499)
Ken Nitta
Northwest Cancer
Specialists
Brian Proksch
Standard Insurance Co.
TriMet
Wells Fargo Bank
Northwest, N.A.
SUPPORT
($500 - $999)
Bay Bank
Patty Fink
Providence ElderPlace
Schetky NW Sales, Inc.
Corinne Scott
Louis Simpson
Elaine Wells
Western Bus Sales, Inc.
White & Lee LLP
FRIEND
($1 - $499)
Tarik Abdsameia
Lois Akerson
Amalgamated Transit Union
Jean Ameele
American Red Cross,
Oregon Trail Chapter
Warren & Gladys Anderson
The Arc Of Oregon
Lucy Baker
Gail & Leonard Bauhs
Ruth Beckman
Justin Berlureau
William & Margaret Bitar
Ann Blaker
Zina & Robert Booher
Bernie Bottomly
Betty Bracken
Patty Brost
Gladys Brown
Martha Butterworth
Cancer Care Resources
Johanna Carabellese
Roberta & Felix Casanova
Effie & Lois Castien
Clackamas County
DHS-SSD
Thomas Clancy
Leslie & Richard Clark
Helen Clemenson
Mable Compton
Kay Dalke
Edward & Patricia Davie
Martitia Dell
Robert & Carol DentSmith
Sister Mary Dernovek
Patricia DeVargas-Walker
Irmgard Domgorgen
Kathleen & Allan Douglas
Clyde Dunbar
Jim Duncan
EasyStreet
Edwards Center, Inc.
Robey Eldridge
Mabel Eng
Dick Feeney
Mary Fetsch
Jeanine Fortino
Susan Fratt
Betty & Wayne Fry
Shana Garvey
Sandra Gerling
Robert Goldfield
Romelle Guidry
Marion Gustafson
Mary Belle Hahn
Fred Hansen
Renita & Kent Hansen
William Hart
Joan Heinemann
Regina Helin
Terry & Robin Hess
Winifred Heuschkel
Ethel Hiatt
Marcia Hobart
Estle Hummels
Marie & Daniel Hundley
Florence Itaya &
William Braun
Richard Jones
Woodrow & Hilda Joss
Mary Jungnickel
Norma Kelly & Gene
Woollen
Barbara Kennedy
Julie Kennedy
Karen Lee
Legacy Health Systems
Theodore Leroux
LifeWorks Northwest
Juan & Gonzala Lira
Darvel Lloyd
Ruth Logan
Thank you for your support!
We are deeply grateful to the many individuals, businesses and founda-
tions that support Ride Connection. Your generosity and support are critical in helping our mission
to linking
accessible transportation with community need
. In this issue, we are pleased to recognize all cash gifts re-
ceived between July 1, 2003 and June 30, 2004. We kindly request you notify us of any corrections to this
list by calling us at 503.528.1726.
pg_0008
FRIEND
($1 - $499) contd.
Susan Longaker
Jeri Lowry
Lydia Lundberg
Shirley & George Lyons
Debra Maercklein
Steve March
Harold & Gloria May
Wilson & Helen McDonald
Elizabeth McDowall
Jack & Jan McGowan
Lela & Charles Mead
Metro West Ambulance
MFS Project Linkage
Mary Miller
Estol Moore
Marylee Morris
Lillian Mulford
Alida Nielsen
Northwest Portland Ministries
Bobbie Nunn
Linda Ochs
Dale Olsen
Cynthia, David, & Andrew
Owens
Pacific Coast Restaurants
Pacific Northwest Bank
PacifiCAB Company
Shirley Paola
Warren & Rebecca Pickett
Claire & Darell Potter
Duane & Patricia Probst
Michael & Julie Proksch
Susan Quattrocchi
Chuck Ramsdell
David Raphael
Ruth Reese
Fred Reynolds
Patrick Rogers
Thelma Rogers
Carolyn Rundorff
Sue Sakai
Dani Sapiro
Forrest & Barbara Schuppert
Scrap Happy
William & Hazel Sefler
Paula Shadrach
Betty Smith
Bruce Solberg
Raymond South
Wilma & George Spady
Special Mobility Services, Inc.
Kimberly & Jesse Stanchfield
Kari Stanley
Cathy & Thomas Stanton
Leo Sticka
Alison & Wayne Stoll
Sandra & Robert Stutey
Diane Syrcle & Susan Lee
Linda & Sam Talluto
Marissa & Louis Taylor
Tektronix Foundation
Daniel Theda
Mary & James Theda
Patricia & Herbert Trachsel
Jerry & Vivian Trageser
Susan Triplett
Robert Ueland
Umpqua Bank
Union Bank Of California
Don Van Hees
Ruth Voll
Rosy Vu
Bruce Warner
Mary Ann & Jay Watson
Julie & Dennis Wehling
Gladys Weir
Diane Wells
Julie & Rodrick Wilcke
Debra Woodruff
Park & Martha Woodworth
Betsy & George Wright
Abigail Wyman
Virginia Wysong
Thank you for your support!
We are deeply grateful to the many individuals, businesses and founda-
tions that support Ride Connection. Your generosity and support are critical in helping our mission
to linking
accessible transportation with community need
. In this issue, we are pleased to recognize all cash gifts re-
ceived between July 1, 2003 and June 30, 2004. We kindly request you notify us of any corrections to this
list by calling us at 503.528.1726.