Volunteer | The Catch a Ride Network

Drive Change.
One Ride at a Time.

Join the Catch a Ride Network and help your neighbors get to the places that matter most.

Why Your Help Matters

Every day, millions of Americans miss healthcare appointments, job opportunities, and family moments simply because they don’t have reliable transportation.

The Catch a Ride Network connects compassionate volunteer drivers with neighbors who need a lift to essential destinations. When you volunteer, you’re not just providing a ride — you’re restoring dignity, opportunity, and hope.

How It Works

Step 1

Step 2

Get Trained – Attend a brief orientation & driver support training session.

Step 3

Drive When You Can – Choose trips that fit your schedule.

Step 4

See Your Impact – Every ride creates access and independence

Sign-up Today

What You'll Do

Your Role

Use your personal vehicle to give rides to residents in the community.
- Access to a vehicle is available for volunteers in Detroit, MI and Dallas, TX who prefer not to use their own car.
Confirm trip details via our simple app or text alerts.
Drive courteously and safely, representing your community with pride.

You'll Gain

Flexible scheduling.
Mileage reimbursement.
Community connection.
Recognition and rewards.

Requirements

Valid Drivers License

Safety is our top priority. A current license and good driving record ensure we’re keeping every ride safe for both you and your passengers.

Insured Vehicle

You can use your own vehicle to help your neighbors — or, in select cities like Detroit and Dallas, drive one of our Catch a Ride Network vehicles if you’d rather not put miles on yours.

Smart Phone

Our coordination team keeps things simple — you’ll receive ride details, route updates, and check-ins directly on your phone through text or app notifications.

Background Check

A quick background check helps us ensure the safety and trust that define the Catch a Ride Network experience for riders and volunteers alike.

Questions? Contact Us!

Meet John Doherty IV, National Volunteer Program Manager

John is a retired United States Air Force veteran with over 15 years of experience in public safety, healthcare response, and community leadership.

He has served as a disaster response medic and aerospace medical technician with the Texas Air National Guard and U.S. Air Force Reserve, earning distinctions such as the Meritorious Service Medal, Texas Medal of Merit, and multiple Humanitarian Service Medals for his roles during Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 pandemic.

John brings deep expertise in crisis response and program management, supported by a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication from the University of Cincinnati.

Email: jdoherty@catcharide.org

Phone: 402-413-0938

Tieshae, TX

"Giving my time in the community, when it is needed the most, is the most generous gift of all."

Paula, MI

"On a day with no sunshine, my riders brighten my day."

Terres, TN

"I enjoy helping people in my community and building relationships with my passengers."

Why Now is the Time

The need for reliable, compassionate transportation has never been greater.

When you volunteer with the Catch a Ride Network, you:

Help community members access healthcare, jobs, and essential services with dignity.
Support community health and economic opportunity.
Join a national movement to make mobility accessible for everyone.

Drive change — literally.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have a set schedule or is it flexible?

You drive when you want to. There are no set hours or schedules required. Volunteer when it fits in your schedule and choose which trips work best for you.

Is mileage reimbursed?

When driving their personal vehicle, volunteers receive the federal IRS reimbursement rate for charity at $0.14/mile. You can also choose to donate your reimbursement back to the Catch a Network or local non-profit organization.

What types of rides will I give?

We provide transportation for healthcare, work, education, groceries, and other essential needs.

What if I need to cancel?

Just let our team know — we’ll reassign the trip and make sure the rider still gets where they need to go.

What insurance is required for drivers?

Traditionally, additional insurance is not required for volunteer drivers. We always encourage people to check with their respective insurance provider to be safe.

What kind of training do I receive?

All volunteer drivers receive an initial orientation and ongoing support from our coordination team that is available Monday - Sunday, 5:00 AM - Midnight Central Time.

Drive Change. One Ride at a Time.