MOUNT VERNON — Neighbors Driving Neighbors seeks volunteers to become drivers for the nonprofit organization.

Serving the towns of Belgrade, Fayette, Mount Vernon, Rome and Vienna, the organization matches drivers with residents who need a ride to medical appointments, the grocery store and other errands.

References and a background check are required for new drivers, along with participation in a two-hour orientation.

The next volunteer driver orientation is scheduled for 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 28, in Mount Vernon. The orientation location will be provided once applicants sign up. For more information and to obtain a volunteer application, contact ride coordinator Misty Beck at 207-860-0677 or [email protected].

The organization has been providing free transportation services to its neighbors since 2015. Volunteer drivers give of their own time and use their own cars for transport. All of the drivers are vaccinated and follow COVID protection protocols such as wearing a mask, providing good air flow in the vehicle and asking the rider to sit the back seat.

The organization will provide transportation for anyone of any age or income status, as long as the rider is vaccinated or needs a ride to get a vaccine. The organization also provides pick up and delivery of pre-paid grocery and pharmacy orders for people in its service area.

Those in need of transportation can use the contact information above to schedule an intake. Transportation destinations include Augusta, Waterville, Winthrop and Farmington — anywhere within 35 miles of resident’s home.