The First Ride Celebration for ITNNorthCentralConnecticut took place on April 27, 2009, with State Senator Jonathan Harris behind the wheel. “I am pleased to have played a part in helping to get ITN started, but the credit really goes to those on the ground who made it a reality,” Senator Harris told representatives from ITNAmerica, the State of Connecticut’s Commission on Aging, the Connecticut Chapter of AARP, and the Connecticut Department of Social Services Aging Services Division.
Senator Harris’ passenger and ITNNorthCentralConnecticut’s first rider was Jean Paterwic. Jean uses a walker, and she volunteers to prepare ITN mailings from her home. “I believe in ITNNorthCentralConnecticut, and I support what I believe in,” she said. “ITN can provide me with the door-through-door service that I need to get from my apartment to the car, and it will enhance my independence,” Paterwic added.
ITNNorthCentralConnecticut is now offering rides 24/7 to seniors and adults with visual impairments in Bloomfield, East Granby, East Windsor, Enfield, Granby, Somers, South Windsor, Suffield, Windsor and Windsor Locks. This alternative transportation program uses a combination of volunteer and paid drivers who provide rides in private vehicles. There is no restriction on the purpose of a ride, and help is offered to carry packages, fold walkers, and open doors. Members enjoy peace of mind knowing that a clean private car and safe, experienced driver are available to them around the clock, 365 days a year.
Funding for ITNNorthCentralConnecticut™ was provided in part by the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services Aging Services Division and by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.
Communications Manager Lisa Holbrook, ITNAmerica, Executive Director Margaret Smith Hale, ITNNorthCentralConnecticut, Senator Jonathan Harris, First Rider Jean Paterwic Photo credit: Connecticut Commission on Aging Photo.
Senator Jonathan A. Harris delivered the First Ride.
Photo credit: Connecticut Commission on Aging Photo.
