Impacting Lives One Ride at a Time

I learned that the folks at CHAD Transit were nominated in Vogue Optical’s Hometown Heroes contest for businesses/organizations who have gone above and beyond over the past 24 months, whether it has been through acts of kindness and giving back or overcoming major struggles to keep their doors open. The contest spanned 5 provinces obtaining 148 entries with only one winner being selected in each province…And they WON!

I just had to learn more, so I chatted with Marg who not only works in the office but also works as a part-time CHAD Transit bus driver. After offering my congratulations, I asked, “How long has CHAD Transit been operating in our community?” She replied, “For over 26 years! We provide transportation assistance for those who need it. We help the disabled, seniors, and anyone else who does not have access to their own transportation to get to work, grocery stores, shopping malls, and hospital appointments.”

Marg went on to share that many of the bus drivers have developed friendships with their passengers over the years. They are not just passengers and bus drivers; they are more like family. Especially to those who use the service to get to dialysis appointments multiple times a week. “We have been offering this service since the fall of 2017,” she paused, “Since that time, we have lost quite a few patients.” A moment of sadness swept over me for a moment as I could only imagine how that must feel, to see their seat now empty on the bus. After a moment, she continued, “Our goal is to improve the lives of people the best way we can. We want to make sure that no one feels alone in their time of need in our community.”

With that goal in mind, CHAD Transit unveiled a program several years ago aimed at identifying seniors who live in isolation and lack discretionary incomes or other means for recreational outings to get out and explore the surrounding areas. Marg smiled, “We are so happy that this program will be up and running again this year. Everyone just loves a Sunday drive.” What a wonderful thing to offer, I thought to myself. She continued, “We take day trips to Masstown Market, Pictou waterfront, tour the fall leaves, and more.”

I left the conversation feeling inspired by what CHAD Transit is doing in our community. I felt grateful that we have such an amazing service right here in our community. It reminded me that we can all make a difference. We can all take the time to offer a warm hello to someone, to hold a door open, to offer a compliment. To let people know we see them, and they matter.

I will leave you with these inspiring words by Maya Angelou, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”