The “Silver Tsunami” of aging Baby Boomers is coming, and SAINT Volunteer Transportation is preparing for the ride.

The nonprofit agency has been in business for 25 years in Fort Collins and 12 years in Loveland, first as a private nonprofit called Care-A-Van, then as the City of Fort Collins Dial-A-Ride service.

SAINT recruits volunteer drivers to help senior citizens and people with disabilities stay independent by providing transportation to obtain essential goods and services. A small staff of four schedules rides and fulfills the difficult task of recruiting volunteer drivers, who use their own cars. 

“It speaks very well of our Larimer County citizens that so many people are willing to take their own car and go out in all kinds of weather and traffic conditions to help the seniors and people with disabilities,” Executive Director Gary Thomas (pictured above) said.

With the Community Foundation managing the endowment fund, SAINT can remain focused on its mission. The nonprofit has grown more than 40 percent in the last few years. In 2008, 160 volunteers provided 20,000 rides to 500 clients.

“The Community Foundation’s support has kept our agency going and growing,” Thomas said.

Volunteer Gloria walks with SAINT client Carol from her home to Gloria’s car. Although she no longer drives, SAINT helps Carol continue to access all the places necessary to maintain her health and live independently.