The Dauphin RIDE program has been around for more than three decades.
On Friday, it's back. The program will run every Friday and Saturday evening from 9:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., and on New Year's Eve. It's the season to celebrate, but it's never the time to get behind the wheel impaired.
Sarah Shuttleworth says the crew is ready to go.
"We're feeling pretty good. We've been very fortunate because many people have reached out to volunteer," said Shuttleworth. "We're really looking forward to seeing some new faces and getting the ball rolling."
Reducing Impaired Driving Everywhere. It's not just a slogan for the Dauphin RIDE program; it's everything. Sarah's grandfather and some of his friends founded the program in 1992. They wanted something in the community that individuals could rely on during the holiday season.
Statistics show that people drink more during the holiday season, and when you do, the RIDE program will be here.
"It's kind of become a family thing since then. My mom took over and now I'm at the age where I'm sort of taking over," continued Shuttleworth. "We've seen over the years that the community really utilizes the program, it's very much needed. We want to keep it going as long as we can. It's a great community-focused program. We want to make sure everyone gets home safely."
How does it work? That's easy. If you're out somewhere with your vehicle and have had some drinks, you can call the RIDE program. They will pick you and your vehicle up and take you back home. The number for the program is 638-5707.
If you don't have your vehicle with you, you can't use the RIDE program. You, instead, should call a taxi or arrange for someone to pick you up.
While the program primarily services those in Dauphin, it has ventured outside of the city in the past.
"We've gone to Gilbert Plains, Grandview, Winnipegosis, and Ste. Rose," added Shuttleworth. "It honestly depends how busy we are that night and how many volunteers we have. We try to make sure that anyone who calls, we can accomodate them in some way."
There is no charge to use the Dauphin RIDE program. However, tips are welcome. A tip is far less than what you will pay if you decide to drive impaired and get caught.
"Because we are a non-profit program, all the tips go towards the program," ended Shuttleworth. "We use that money to help cover volunteers gas and other fees. We like to feed our volunteers, so money goes to that as well."
The RIDE program runs December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, and 31. The number is 638-5707.
