We’re excited to introduce you to Gloria M., a dedicated member of the HopSkipDrive CareDriver community in San Jose, California. Since becoming a CareDriver in December of 2022, Gloria has played a crucial role in ensuring riders get where they need to go safely and on time, making a real difference in her community.
What made you decide to become a CareDriver?
I decided to become a CareDriver for the ability to make my own schedule, have time for myself, and help people and families.
Tell us about your caregiving experience. How does it play a role in your work as a CareDriver?
My experience caring for children in Colombia is a great advantage in my role as a CareDriver. The empathetic communication skills I developed help me better understand and meet the needs of the children I drive.
Being a CareDriver has also taught me a lot about time management. Creating a daily routine with riders has shown me how important it is to be both organized and flexible. Being part of the HopSkipDrive CareDriver community makes me feel like an active part of the solution for families, helping their children arrive safely and happily at their schools and homes.
Have you had any special experiences with riders that have been meaningful to you?
Yes, I had a very meaningful experience driving a child with speech difficulties for over a year. We developed a wonderful connection, and even though years have passed, he still recognizes me when I see him at his school.
Have you learned anything surprising from your riders?
One of my riders was an incredibly intelligent child with autism. He would pick up words in Spanish during our rides and translate them into English for me — he actually helped me learn English.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a CareDriver?
My advice is to remember that every child or rider is unique. You must care for and protect them as if they were your own.
Do you tell other people (such as family and friends) about HopSkipDrive?
Absolutely. HopSkipDrive has changed my life. It’s my main source of income, and I love having the opportunity to serve my community through such a supportive company.
Do you have any advice you think would be useful for other CareDrivers?
My advice is to love the opportunities HopSkipDrive provides, love taking care of children, and be committed.
How important do you think HopSkipDrive’s mission (to create opportunity for all through mobility) is, and why?
It’s motivating to know that we create opportunities for the riders we transport. By arranging for them to arrive at school on time, we ensure they have access to education. Many children live far from their schools and, without the support HopSkipDrive arranges, they would not be able to attend regularly.
When all children have the opportunity to attend class regularly, their chances of breaking cycles of poverty, achieving personal goals, and contributing to the development of their community increase.
HopSkipDrive also fosters security and peace of mind. Children arrive at school safely, which gives parents peace of mind knowing their children are in a caring environment.
This is an opportunity for all of us — parents, teachers, children, and CareDrivers — because we are a tool for making this process successful and being a support for the community.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us about your experience as a CareDriver?
Being a HopSkipDrive CareDriver is a wonderful experience because I get to serve my community and become an important part of many families’ lives.
