Two volunteer driver programs – West Marin and Eastern Marin – are in operating in Marin County.
STAR Volunteer Driver Program
What is it?
The Safe Transport And Reimbursement (STAR) Program, formerly Volunteer Driver Program (VDP), empowers older adults and people with disabilities to remain independent by providing a mileage reimbursement for their friends, neighbors and other community members who provide them with rides.
How does it Work?
- The STAR Program provides a free transportation reimbursement for older adults and people with disabilities living in Marin County.
- Participants identify members of their community who are willing to be a driver for them.
- The STAR program does not provide a pool of
volunteer drivers, but rather allows the rider to find their own trusted driver and provide a mileage reimbursement. A caregiver, friend or neighbor may be a driver. You can have more than one driver and we encourage you to do so. - We help our participants overcome the feeling of dependency by providing a financial mileage reimbursement so that participants have resources to give in return for the help they receive.
- With the STAR Program, participants receive door to door assistance and companionship for medical appointments, shopping, classes, family visits, or a meal and a night out.
- For more information and the application please click here.
How do I qualify for the STAR Program?
- Live in Marin County.
- If you are under the age of 60 you must have been approved for ADA Paratransit services commonly known as the Whistlestop Wheels Program.
- If you are over the age of 60 and have a disability or frailty, you will also qualify.
Call 415-454-0969 to find out more information and to schedule a phone assessment to begin the application process.
West Marin Volunteer Driver Program
Seniors & those with disabilities may qualify for assistance to help secure a volunteer escort-driver.
Call (415) 663-8148 x 114 if you need help with transportation.
Once you have completed the necessary application procedures, you may be eligible for TRIPtrans assistance. You will receive monthly cash mileage reimbursements for your volunteer work.
Arrangements for travel are made between you and your volunteer driver, as mutually convenient. Records of travel are sent to us each month to validate your completed travel.
- Reimbursed at .35 a mile
- 300 miles a month limit
- IHSS workers OK
- Family helpers must be approved in advance
