TRA Volunteer Application

Dear Prospective TRA Volunteer,

We are excited that you’d like to join TRA’s volunteer family! TRA is a network of big-hearted people of all ages and backgrounds who give rides to seniors and individuals with low vision in Westchester and Putnam counties. To get started helping in your community, please complete the application on the following pages.

Once you’re cleared for service, we’ll schedule a short welcome meeting and orientation. We’ll contact you to set this up at a time, date, and location that is convenient for you.

As a volunteer, you're providing something far more valuable than just a ride. For many seniors and individuals with low vision, these trips are a way to maintain their connection to their community. It's a chance to see familiar faces, stay engaged with neighbors, and remain part of the world around them. You'll be helping them get to the medical appointments that keep them healthy and independent, but you'll also be showing up for them in a deeper way. Many of our riders simply want someone to talk to, a friendly presence, and the reassurance that they haven't been forgotten by the community they call home. That's what our volunteers truly provide.

Another great benefit about volunteering with us (other than the wonderful smiles you’ll get from those you drive!) is that you can give as little or as much time as your schedule allows. You choose when and where you volunteer, and how often.

Did you know that TRA is more than just a transportation service? TRA is also an information and referral service, and serves as a hub to connect older adults (age 60+) and adults with disabilities (age 21+) to hundreds of support services in our area. This service can be accessed by calling one of our friendly resource specialists at (914) 764-3533, or online at the TRA Resource Hub

We look forward to having you onboard! If you have any questions, let us know.

Thank you,
TRA Group, Inc.

Please make sure to have these items handy

• Emergency contact information
• Driver's license
• Vehicle information (make, model, year)
• License plate number
• Car insurance
• Car registration
• Two references (names, phone numbers, email addresses)

Each page of the application will need to be completed before moving on to the next page.

You'll be attaching your documents directly to this form. You can take a photo if you're on your phone, or upload a file if you're on a computer.

If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button at the bottom of the screen, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.

If you would prefer to complete this application in person with a staff member, please contact us at (914) 764-3533 to schedule a meeting.

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

Sharing our stories is one of the best ways we can tell others about the life-changing work we do. As a part of the TRA team, YOU are part of that story! From time to time, we use photos, videos, names, and write-ups to talk about the real-life, every day work we do to improve the lives of the older adults and adults with disabilities who we serve.

These stories help others in the community connect with us, support our work, and donate to our cause. And maybe even volunteer themselves! We’d love your permission in this effort.

I hereby give TRA Group, Inc.

• The unrestricted right and permission to copyright and use, re-use, publish, and republish photographs and video of me or in which I may be included intact or in part, with no restriction, in any and all media now or hereafter known for promotion or any other purpose whatsoever. I understand this is not for commercial purposes, but to promote TRA Group, Inc. and its services, and I waive any rights of compensation.

• I also permit the use of any printed material in connection therewith.

• I hereby relinquish any right that I may have to examine or approve the completed product or products, or the text or printed matter that may be used in conjunction therewith or the use to which it may be applied.

• I hereby release, discharge, and agree to hold harmless TRA Group, Inc., its legal representatives, and all persons functioning under its authority from any liability by virtue of any blurring, distortion, alteration, optical illusion, or use in composite form whether intentional or otherwise, that may occur or be produced in the taking of said picture or video or in any subsequent process thereof, as well as any publication thereof, including without limitation any claims for libel or invasion of privacy.

• I hereby affirm that I am over the age of majority and have the right to contract in my own name or for my minor child. I have read the above authorization, release, and agreement, prior to its execution; I fully understand the contents thereof. This agreement shall be binding upon me and my heirs, legal representatives, and assigns.

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

NYS DISCLOSURE TO CONSUMER

Name of Company: TRA Group, Inc.

As part of TRA Group, Inc.'s volunteer driver application processes, we will obtain one or more consumer reports about you from the consumer reporting agency, IntelliCorp Records, Inc., 3000 Auburn Drive, Suite 410, Beachwood, OH 44122.

•   TRA Group, Inc. will request criminal background and motor vehicle background reports for all volunteers who have contact with vulnerable populations, such as minors, people with disabilities, or older adults.

•   Criminal background and motor vehicle consumer reports will include criminal history and driving history.

Under the provisions of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (“FCRA”), 15 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.; FMCSA regulations in the Federal Code of Regulations, including 49 CFR § 40.329; and certain state laws, before we can seek such reports, where permitted, we must have your written permission to obtain the information.

You have the right, upon written request, to a complete and accurate disclosure of the nature and scope of the investigation. You also are entitled to a copy of that document entitled “Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.” Under the FCRA, before we take adverse action on the basis, in whole or in part, of information in a consumer report, you will be provided a copy of that report, the name, address, and telephone number of the consumer reporting agency, and a summary of your rights under the FCRA.

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

NYS CRIMINAL AND MOTOR VEHICLE BACKGROUND CHECK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT/CONSENT FORMS

TRA Group, Inc.
Acknowledgement and Authorization for Background Check for Volunteer Purposes

I acknowledge receipt of the separate stand-alone Disclosure and certify that I have read and understand it and this authorization. I hereby authorize the obtaining of criminal background and motor vehicle background “consumer reports” by TRA Group, Inc. at any time after receipt of this authorization and throughout my tenure, if applicable. To this end, I hereby authorize, without reservation, any law enforcement agency, administrator, state or federal agency, institution, school or university (public or private), information service bureau, employer, or insurance company to furnish any and all background information requested by IntelliCorp Records, Inc., 3000 Auburn Drive, Suite 410, Beachwood, Ohio 44122; Tel. No. 1.888.946.8355; www.intellicorp.net.

I also consent to have any legally required notices sent electronically.

New York applicants only: Upon request, you will be informed whether or not a consumer report was requested by the Company, and if such report was requested, informed of the name and address of the consumer reporting agency that furnished the report. You have the right to inspect and receive a copy of any investigative consumer report requested by the Company by contacting the consumer reporting agency identified above directly. By signing below, you acknowledge receipt of Article 23-A of the New York Correction Law.

 

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

Description

TRA is a collaborative not-for-profit organization that manages ride choices in Westchester and neighboring Counties. TRA volunteers drive pre-registered residents aged 60+ and adults with low vision aged 21+ to medical appointments throughout Westchester County.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Follow all safety guidelines included in the Volunteer Guide and obey all traffic safety laws, including not using a cell phone or texting while driving.
• Keep private all personal and medical information shared by the rider.
• Report any issues, concerns, accidents and/or incidents immediately to the office at 914-764-3533.
• TRA’s insurance company requires that all riders have a signed waiver on file with TRA. Home health aides, family members, or other caregivers may accompany, but only if they have signed a waiver in advance.
• Maintain a clean, comfortable, and safe vehicle at all times.
• Wear an I.D. badge when picking up riders so you can be identified easily.
• Display the TRA Volunteer Driver laminated sign in the window whenever picking up a rider.
• Maintain a professional relationship with the clients and riders. Do not solicit, accept donations or favors from clients.
• Notify the office immediately if an emergency comes up and you are unable to complete your ride.

Training

• Complete an Orientation and Safety Training session.
• Become familiar with the AssistedRides program to sign up for rides.
• Participate in ongoing training activities, at least once a year.
• Participate in safety training at least once a year.

Outreach

TRA encourages interested volunteers to assist in outreach to the community through social media, newsletters, testimonials, and videos or as an ambassador.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Ability to treat each client, volunteer, and staff member with dignity and respect.
• Interest in the needs and well-being of older adults and adults with disabilities and their caregivers.
• Valid NYS driver’s license.
• Current vehicle insurance.
• Current vehicle registration.
• Criminal background and motor vehicle background check at TRA’s expense.
• Proficiency in the English language required. Spanish, Chinese or other language is a plus.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Physical Demands

• Sitting for long periods of time.
• Assisting riders when requested.
• Fold, lift and put walker in vehicle when necessary. If a caregiver is accompanying the client, they will manage the walker.

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

• I will conduct myself with dignity, courtesy, and consideration.
  
  
• I will be friendly and understanding when driving.
   
• I realize that, as a volunteer, I control the dates and times of my service. I also understand that I will not be compensated for any time spent volunteering, nor am I entitled to benefits, including employment insurance benefits, upon the termination of this agreement or because of this service. Furthermore, I will not accept tips or request that my meals be paid by riders.
   
• I will treat my volunteer work as seriously as if I were paid for my service.
   
• I will not make derogatory or discriminatory remarks to or about riders because of race, color, creed, religion, origin, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, or marital status.
   
• I will not impose my religious or political beliefs on riders. I will not lecture riders.
   
• Sexual harassment or contact with riders is inappropriate and not allowed.
   
• I will not operate my vehicle while under the influence of alcoholic beverages or mood-altering drugs while serving as a Volunteer Driver.
   
• I will comply with all New York State motor vehicle laws, including no texting or cell phone use, unless hands-free.
   
• I will drive only those riders that TRA has told me to expect, and never minors under the age of 21. I understand that all riders must have a signed waiver on file in the TRA office for insurance purposes.
   
• I will be punctual in the performance of my duties.
   
• I agree to keep confidential my rider’s name, information, and places of transport and/or any information learned about TRA clients. I understand that this is essential in order to protect the privacy of all TRA clients.
   
• I will report to TRA staff if I feel the well-being of a rider is in jeopardy or if the rider is experiencing abuse or neglect.
   
• If I have a criticism of office staff or procedures, I will speak directly to the supervisor of the Volunteer Driver Program, and NOT to riders or other volunteers.
   
• I recognize that, as a volunteer, I represent TRA. I have an obligation to my work, to those who direct it, to my riders, and to the public to uphold this code of conduct.
   
• I understand that any volunteer who violates this code of conduct may be asked to leave at any time.

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)

As consideration for volunteering for TRA Group, Inc., I hereby agree that I, and my assignees, heirs, guardians, and legal representatives, will not make a claim against or sue TRA Group, Inc. or its employees, agents or contractors for injury or damage resulting from the negligence, whether active or passive, or other acts, however caused, by any of its officers, employees, agents, or contractors of TRA Group, Inc. as a result of my volunteering. I hereby release and discharge TRA Group, Inc. and its officers, employees, agents and contractors from all actions, claims, or demands that I, my heirs, guardians, and legal representatives now have, or may have in the future, for injury or damage resulting from my participation as a volunteer driver.

I have read the TRA Volunteer Driver Position Description and Volunteer Code of Conduct, and fully understand its contents. I am aware that this application contains a release of liability and I sign it of my own free will. If I have any questions or concerns, I will call TRA at (914) 764-3533.

My signature below certifies that all statements made on this application are true, complete, and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand these statements are subject to verification. I understand that falsification on this application can disqualify me from consideration or result in my volunteer
services being denied.

I have read, understood, and agree to meet the expectations described in the TRA Volunteer Position Description, Code of Conduct, and Waiver of Liability.

(If you would like to use the "Save and Continue Later" button below, you do not need to create an account at the prompt. You can select "Skip Create an Account" and enter your email address instead.)