1. Apply to be a Vital Volunteer

1. Fill out the Volunteer Interest Form.
2. The Volunteer Manager will reach out to invite you to complete a full Volunteer Application, which includes a background check as part of the process.

2. Complete Training

Training takes approximately one week to complete, but it does not need to be done on consecutive days. You can coordinate your training schedule with the training team.

Day 1: Orientation

The in-person Orientation takes approximately 8 hours and includes an overview of Via Mobility Services, required Drug & Alcohol testing (as all drivers must be drug-free by law), and issuance of a badge to access Via’s facility.

Day 2: Safety First Training

Via Mobility Services in-person training is an 8-hour session led by our trainers that covers best practices for assisting individuals who use wheelchairs when entering and exiting vehicles as part of our door-through-door paratransit service.

Day 3: Defensive Driving 

Defensive Driving is offered as an 8-hour in-person training or a 4-hour online course, both free for volunteers. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate, no matter which option you choose. Some insurance providers may offer a discount for completing this course—be sure to check with yours!

Day 4: PASS Class

The PASS (Passenger Assistance, Safety, Sensitivity) class is a 1-day in-person training or 1-hour-long online course. The PASS Class is free to take online.

Day 5: Pre- and Post-Trip Training

You will receive approximately one hour of one-on-one, in-person training with a Via Mobility Services Trainer, learning to drive one of our Prius vehicles and how to complete the required pre- and post-trip procedures. If you prefer, you may use your own vehicle while still learning these important processes.

Additionally, you will meet with the Volunteer Manager for about 30 minutes to review our policies and procedures, including instructions on using a tablet to complete your route.

Day 6: Ride-Along

Ride along for 4 hours as a passenger with a Volunteer Trainer to experience firsthand what volunteering with Via involves.

Day 7: Driving Your First Route

Next, you will drive your first 4-hour route while a Volunteer Trainer rides along with you as your passenger.

Volunteer Interest Form

Why volunteer with Via?

• Drive a hybrid electric Prius or your own car
• Make a schedule that works for you
• Mobile tablets with GPS
• Mileage reimbursement is offered for volunteers using their own cars
• Backup and support of Via’s Call Center and safety and training departments
• Draw on Via’s decades of transportation experience
• Access Via’s knowledge of serving people with mobility limitations
• Training and orientation (training involves completing an in-person orientation, CTAA PASS class, and National Safety Council Defensive Driving class — check with your insurance company to see if you can save money once you pass this class!)
• Liability insurance (supplemental or comprehensive)

What are the volunteer driver qualifications?

• A little time to spare (at least 4 hours at a time)
• Enjoy older adults and those living with disabilities
• Safe driving record
• Background checks and drug screens (including marijuana) are done before volunteer work begins and also on an annual basis.
• Honest and reliable
• Good cognitive and awareness skills
• Comfortable with technology
• Know the local community
• Follow Via’s volunteer driver policies and procedures

How many hours or days do I have to volunteer?

• Any day Monday through Friday.
• Via volunteers are asked to commit to a 4-hour route
• Example 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. ,10a.m. to 2p.m. or 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

What if I have more questions?

For questions regarding Via’s volunteer driving program, please contact Operations Manager Adriana Torres at atorres@ViaColorado.org or call 720.804.3693.