Volunteers in any capacity often say they get tremendous satisfaction in helping others, and their recipients’ gratitude is reward enough. Bena Gerber, a Senior Corps-RSVP member who drives for Escorted Transportation Service Northwest (ETS/NW) is no exception. Yet for her, there’s an added bonus. The people she brings to doctor appointments, blood tests, or other necessary treatments are not just clients. They’ve become her friends and family.

“I’m filling in for kids who aren’t able to drive their parents when they need it,” she said. “So in a way, I am family. I even bonded with one of my passengers over our love of cats. I haven’t met a grumpy passenger yet.”