DRIVEN

UZURV Drivers provide tens of thousands of rides every month for folks who need them. That means more people with greater access to daily activities like school, work, and doctor appointments.

We chatted with Deborah Legree – one of the newest Drivers in Richmond, VA – to learn more about her experience driving with UZURV and what it takes to be a great driver.

“I’ve met some great, amazing people – even from my first day,” said Deborah. “I remember it was pouring rain, and I picked up this lady. I was like, ‘take your time.’ I helped out, we laughed, we talked, and I got her to church. I’m thinking – okay, I can do this.”

“It’s been great ever since. I’ve had no problems.”

What, according to Deborah, makes a great UZURV Driver?

“First and foremost,” she said, “I have this motto, and I taught my kids – you treat people how you want to be treated.”

Deborah became a driver with UZURV in Richmond, Virginia after working many years with social services in New York City, where she was born and raised. There, she learned how to support people in her community living in dire situations.

“Your job is to do the right thing. Because guess what – in the blink of an eye, you could be on the other side of that desk.” she said. “God forbid – I hope I don’t get sick. But, if I do, I hope I run across somebody like me.”

“So, I do what I can for anyone who gets in my car,” she continued. “I’m there. I walk them to the door.”

What are Deborah’s tips for making riders feel appreciated?

• Treat your rider like you know them. Smile and greet them with a cheery “Hey, how are you doing?”
• Listen to your rider. If your rider is quiet, don’t force it. After all, they may have had a difficult day or received bad news.
• Use common sense and provide common courtesy to your riders. For example, have an umbrella in the car to protect them from the weather when escorting them to and from your vehicle. Ask them if you can help with anything. Make them comfortable and safe.
• Make your riders feel like they matter – because they do.

Deborah wrapped it all up with some final words of wisdom:

“It could be you in that seat. Just put yourself in the shoes of the person you are picking up and ask yourself – how would you want that driver to treat you?” she said.

“I’d want them to make my day. Because of that, I’m gonna try to make yours. If I don’t leave my riders with anything else – it’s going to be: ‘Have a great day.’ ‘See you soon.’ ‘Keep your head up.’”

“We got this. We got this.”

Other ways UZURV Drivers make riders feel comfortable and safe:

• Provide masks, especially for the immunocompromised
• Offer bottled water and snacks
• Install handles to help riders get in and out of vehicles

⭐ What do you do for your riders? ⭐