The interest in use of MAC’s Safe Ride, an Old Forge-area late night transportation service, has increased greatly since its inaugural launch on New Year’s eve.
During the winter/spring months the service was available solely on weekends.
But, according to the not-for-profit service’s spokesperson, Beth Tickner, now that summer has hit, the van is on the road seven nights a week.
And, Tickner said, with the accelerated usage has come a demand to transport larger parties than the current 5-person van can accommodate in one trip.
Therefore, MAC’s Safe Ride will be conducting future fundraisers to support the purchase of a used 15-passenger van.
The first fundraiser will be held at Daiker’s Inn on Wednesday, July 20 beginning at 9 p.m.
It will feature live music by headliner, Adam Reynolds, along with area musicians Doug Green, Andy Minnie, and Joe Bolton.
All proceeds from the door will support the purchase of the additional larger van.
Tickner said representatives of MAC’s Safe Ride will be available the evening of the benefit to distribute information on the service, and to sign-up volunteer drivers and co-pilots for the month of August.
She added that they are in the process of putting a calendar on their web page, MACsSafeRide
.com, which will show what nights volunteer drivers are needed.
Anyone who finds themselves in a situation where they need a safe ride home, can call (315) 369-8121.
Tickner recommends that callers speak directly to a volunteer rather than by text or leaving a phone message as area cell service is not always readily available during peak usage times.
More information on MAC’s Safe Ride is available by email at: MACs369.8121@gmail.com.
Volunteers are currently on the look-out for a suitable used van, but Tickner said the organization welcomes any help or leads from the public as well.
Any musician who would like to perform at the July 20 fundraiser can call Tal Daiker at (315) 360-6954.
