Community Drivers: A Lifeline for Rural Transit in Vermont

Public transit in rural Vermont looks different from city systems. Most towns lack the population density for fixed-route buses, leaving many residents dependent on demand-response options—often called “Dial-A-Ride.” Riders must schedule trips in advance, and regional providers dispatch vehicles accordingly.

To make this system work, Vermont relies on Community Drivers—local volunteers who use their own vehicles to provide rides at a lower cost than traditional transit vehicles. This approach is critical: roughly 50% of Vermont’s more than half a million annual demand-response trips are provided by Community Drivers, expanding capacity and keeping costs manageable.

MEMBERS ONLY

During COVID-19, the number of Community Drivers fell from over 300 to fewer than 60, creating severe trip constraints and higher costs. Although the program has rebounded to 156 drivers, the shortage prompted the Vermont Legislature to allocate $600,000 to strengthen the initiative.

Funds are being used to:

• Hire volunteer coordinators
• Expand outreach and promotional campaigns
• Purchase sedans to rebuild trip capacity

How It Works

• Mileage Reimbursement: $0.70 per mile (not considered income, so benefits remain unaffected)
• Insurance Coverage: Vermont ensures volunteer trips are covered under traditional policies
• Safety First: Background checks, training sessions, and vehicle inspections required

Community Drivers often cite:

• Satisfaction from helping neighbors
• Building social connections
• Earning extra cash

Goal: Recruit 300+ drivers statewide

Learn more on the Go Vermont program page or email Jeremy Whiting at jeremy.whiting@vermont.gov

How It Supports AARP’s Livable Communities

AARP’s vision includes:

• Safe, walkable neighborhoods
• Affordable housing
• Accessible transportation
• Strong social participation

Community Drivers deliver on these goals by:

1. Providing essential transportation for older adults
2. Ensuring access to healthcare, groceries, and community services
3. Fostering social connection

Driver Safety: Confidence Behind the Wheel

AARP offers programs to keep volunteers safe:

• Smart Driver™ Courses: Online & classroom strategies for modern driving
• Smart DriverTEK™ Workshops: Learn new vehicle tech
• CarFit® Events: Adjust vehicles for comfort and safety

Why It Matters

• Age-friendly infrastructure in action
• Local impact with statewide ripple effect
• Empowered volunteers through training

Get Involved

1. Become a Community Driver through your regional transit provider
2. Enroll in AARP Driver Safety courses for skill-building and insurance discounts
3. Join the Livable Communities movement—explore age-friendly projects across Vermont

Together, Community Drivers and AARP programs create stronger, more connected, and age-inclusive communities—one ride at a time.