50+ Lifestyles

And away we go…

By Karen J. McCoy
Executive Director
iTNQuadCities

And away we go… iTNQuadCities provides an important transportation service for seniors

Isn’t it funny how just the site or smell of something can bring back memories? That is what happens to me every time I drive down Harrison Street in Davenport, through the Hilltop Campus District to go to work. When I pass the park on the east side Harrison Street and 15th street, I can’t help but be reminded of my high school years at Central High School. It was 1974, and I was a sophomore. It was the first time I had the freedom to leave the school campus during lunch break. I would get from 35 cents to 50 cents a day for my lunch; it depended on what we could afford that week. At that time, there was a Hardee’s Restaurant on the grounds that this now the Hilltop Campus Park. I would go there with some of my new found Central High friends, get a cup of water, a packet of catsup and an order of french fries, (can you believe it, french fries were only 25 cents) What an exciting part of my life, high school. Little did I know that 38 years later, I would be sitting at that same location, but it would be a beautiful park?

As I begin a new adventure I am once again making new friends and gaining new experiences. I am blessed to be able to do something that I truly have a passion to do, help older adults; giving them back their independence.

As the Executive Director of iTNQuadCities, I have the privilege of taking people where they need to go and an opportunity to educate the community about our wonderful transportation services. iTNQuadCities is a non-profit transportation service for adults 60+, as well as visually impaired adults. The service is wonderful. As a member of iTNQuadCities, when we give you a ride, you will receive an arm thru arm escort, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. We come right to your door to get you, identify ourselves and walk you to the comfort of our cars (that are just the right temperature, no getting in a car too hot or too cold). Then off we go on your trip. When we arrive at your destination, you will receive door thru door service to get you to your destination.What a dignified way to get transportation. Another benefit is that you do not have to feel guilty about asking family members and friends to take you anywhere. As a member, you can access our services and go out to eat, to the movies, club meetings, cards, bowling, your church, the list goes on. In other words, you can continue your quality of life. What a wonderful feeling! We will take you where you want to go, for any reason, anytime you need. iTNQuadCities provides you transportation services in Bettendorf, Davenport, East Moline, Moline and Rock Island.

During your ride in the front seat of the car, you will find it is a wonderful opportunity to visit with the driver. It feels as if you are riding with a friend. Our drivers are very helpful and friendly. They are volunteers, taking you where you want to go because they want to be there. They want to give back to their community and have compassion to help the older generation. When you arrive back home, you will once again receive arm thru arm service to ensure your safety from our thoughtful drivers. There is no money exchanged on the ride. Arrangements have been made prior to the ride, so there are no uncomfortable situations regarding the cost, and no tipping is allowed.

iTNQuadCities is a membership driven organization. As a member, you will receive benefits such as our arm thru arm service from your front door thru the door of your destination, riding in the front seat, newsletters, short waiting times, $5 birthday credits, as well as credits for your referrals, the temperature of the car is adjusted to your comfort level, opportunity to make new friends, AND, you can continue to go to places other than the doctor.

We began giving rides in mid- August, and our riders are happy with their service. We know this, because they continue to call us for more rides. With our growing business, we are in need of more volunteers. If you would like to be a part of our service as a member or volunteer, call our number or check out www.itnquadcities.org for more information.

Karen J. MCoy is executive director of iTNQuadCities. She can be reached at (563) 322-0555.