FISH has been providing residents with transportation to medical facilities in and near Maine Township since 1971. FISH was created by a group of Maine Township residents who wanted to help their neighbors and has provided thousands of rides during the program's nearly 40 years of service. Volunteers drive those in need to a wide variety of medical appointments (including dental appointments, dialysis, physical therapy, or radiation therapy) for no charge.

To be eligible to participate in the program, residents need to be mobile or be able to use a cane or walker, since most of our drivers are seniors too and we prefer that they do not have to handle wheelchairs.

To give us adequate time to coordinate your appointment with a driver, please call at least a week in advance of your appointment. We will do our best to provide you with a ride. To schedule a ride call Gloria Stepek, FISH Coordinator, at 847-297-2510 x283.

FISH is always in need of volunteer drivers. Volunteer drivers choose how much time they wish to devote. Some drive once a week; others drive more often. Requirements include a current driver's license and proof of auto insurance. FISH carries supplemental liability insurance as an umbrella policy for its drivers.

When you volunteer to drive, your rewards are great:

• Satisfaction from helping a neighbor
• Friendly chats with someone who may be lonely
• Genuine appreciation for providing a wonderful service

To become a volunteer driver for FISH, you will need to come in for an interview and fill out a FISH volunteer driver application. Please contact Ed Oken at 847-696-0761 for more information.