Norm Handelman relishes being busy. At age 79, he has a schedule that keeps him on the go: He teaches Sunday school at his church, belongs to a book club, advocates for voter registration, and is involved in social justice causes.
Yet nothing makes him feel “quite as upbeat” as serving as a volunteer driver for TRA, he says. Over the past five years, he’s provided over 500 rides for older adults and adults with disabilities to essential medical appointments throughout Westchester County.
“It was really love at first sight with TRA,” Norm recalls, a Hawthorne resident since 1989. “You get to know whom you’re driving — you hear about their kids, their grandkids. I have warm feelings toward many of the people I drive. They appreciate the service so much; it’s a wonderful feeling.”
Norm knows the value of providing access to medical care first-hand. Prior to volunteering for TRA, he helped care for his aging uncle. He drove him to all of his doctor’s appointments until he died a few years ago at age 102. As Norm explains, “Getting to those appointments made a huge difference for him. His mind was nimble and active and curious; and with good medical care, he enjoyed a good quality of life for a very long time.”
Norm found out about TRA (then known as WestFair Rides) at a church coffee hour. Happy to learn that there was an organization to provide the service he would enjoy performing, he signed up immediately. He was impressed by the organization’s interview and driver vetting process, and continues to appreciate the ease and flexibility of the sign-up process. “The online system is so easy to use,” he says. “I volunteer when it fits into my schedule. I go when I want and how often I want.”.
Receiving feedback from the organization is motivating, he adds. “TRA keeps us informed about what our riders say. I’ve received so many nice compliments from riders; it feels great!”
His most recent review? “Your service is excellent. Very good to be driven by nice people,” from Mrs. C.
Norm also enjoys the camaraderie of his fellow volunteers. Prior to the pandemic, he regularly attended the events TRA organized for volunteers, including a series of speakers, educational roundtables, and social events. During Covid, Zoom meetings kept the volunteers in touch and able to share best practices for driving during the pandemic. “Those really helped,” he says.
After a 30-year career as a software engineer, commuting on Metro-North to MetLife in New York City, driving his car for a good cause is just how he enjoys spending his time.
“I have an affinity for driving. I love using my GPS and getting to know my way around every corner of Westchester. But the people really matter. They keep my mind in a good place. If a day goes by and I have a light schedule, I’m not as happy. I want to end every day having done something good.”
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