Community Isn’t Just a Word
Join STARS in Supporting the Sisters Community by Gifting a Ride
In Sisters Country, community isn’t just a word — it’s a promise. Whether it’s a ride to the doctor, a meal on the table, or a check-in for a neighbor living with dementia, local nonprofits work to make sure no one is left behind. But none of it happens without community partners — the donors, volunteers, and local businesses who believe that livability starts with compassion close to home.
This month, Sisters Transportation and Rideshare (STARS) launches its 2nd annual Sponsor-A-Ride – “Gift a Ride. Change a Life.” campaign, inviting the community to help keep neighbors connected to medical care. Every $50 donation sponsors a round-trip ride for a senior, veteran, or community member who can’t drive themselves. The campaign runs through December 31 and on Giving Tuesday will celebrate the power of local generosity.
In 2024, STARS volunteers provided over 726 round-trip rides — more than 32,000 miles of free transportation — helping aging, disabled-no matter the age, and underserved residents reach essential healthcare appointments. More than 6,000 volunteer hours were donated by local drivers, dispatchers, and coordinators. Behind every number is a story: a veteran receiving post-surgery care, a senior managing chronic illness, a neighbor keeping a cardiology appointment they otherwise would have missed. These small acts ripple outward — improving health outcomes, reducing isolation, and strengthening the fabric of Sisters Country.
Demand continues to grow. With a rising senior population and limited rural transit options, door-to-door volunteer service fills a vital gap. By year’s end, STARS expects to surpass last year’s record, proving that small towns can meet big challenges when everyone takes part. The program’s impact has also drawn regional and statewide attention as a model for rural mobility and community-based health access.
STARS is one of several organizations improving life for Sisters residents. Programs such as Living Well With Dementia (LWWD), CORE Market, Citizens4Community (C4C), Kiwanis Food Bank, and Age-Friendly Sisters Country (AFSC) all play essential roles supporting older adults, disabled residents, caregivers, and families. Together, they form a compassionate network that ensures no neighbor is forgotten. And all these organizations are affected by diminishing resources.
As the season of giving begins, remember that your support stays right here in Sisters. Every contribution — whether it’s a ride, a meal, or a moment of kindness — strengthens our collective well-being. When we invest in each other, we keep Sisters healthy, connected, and strong. We are a community that recognizes the health challenges that aging and disability brings and by finding ways to help can make sure Sisters remains livable for everyone.
Because in Sisters Country, we truly are stronger together.
Follow us on Facebook at sistersrideshare.
If you think you can be the person who takes someone to their appointment, then consider becoming a STARS driver. Join our ranks of heroes. Our next training is on Oct 8th at 10:15 at the library. Go to https://www.starsride.org/drive-for-us and apply and come to our training. We will reimburse you for your mileage.
Sisters Transportation And Rides Share has the proud mission of “Keeping Sisters Healthy One Ride at a Time!”
