Seniors and adults with disabilities who rely on Beaches Dial-a-Ride have a new ride, thanks to a donation from the Ponte Vedra Beach Rotary Foundation.
The foundation gave Beaches Council on Aging a 2025 Honda Odyssey that seats up to eight passengers. The van replaces a 2011 Toyota Scion in the organization’s fleet and will be used for Dial-a-Ride, the council’s free transportation service for residents of Jacksonville’s Beaches communities.
The addition comes as demand for accessible transportation at the Beaches continues to grow. Dial-a-Ride marked its 50th anniversary last year.
“Our mission is to improve the quality of life for senior residents of the Beaches by connecting them to people, services and places with care,” said Lori Anderson, executive director of Beaches Council on Aging. “This new van will help us continue providing dependable transportation to the people who rely on our services. We are incredibly grateful to the Ponte Vedra Beach Rotary Foundation for investing in our mission and the people we serve.”
Dial-a-Ride takes riders to medical appointments, grocery stores, social activities and other errands. For many older adults and people with disabilities, that access is what makes it possible to stay independent, healthy and connected to their community.
The Rotary Club of Ponte Vedra Beach has contributed more than $2 million to local nonprofits and community organizations over the years.
“We love opportunities like this, when we can help an organization we believe in with something tangible, special and long-lasting. This vehicle isn’t just a donation. It means more people served, more people connected, and lives impacted,” said Billy Wagner, immediate past chair of the Ponte Vedra Beach Rotary Foundation. “I’m incredibly proud to be part of a Rotary Club filled with people who don’t just talk about making a difference. They show up and make it happen.”
Founded in 1975, Beaches Council on Aging helps older adults maintain their independence, dignity and connection as they age. Along with Dial-a-Ride, the organization connects seniors to resources such as financial aid, food assistance, home repairs and Medicare guidance through the Beaches Senior Network.
The council is at 3410 3rd St. S. in Jacksonville Beach and is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information about Dial-a-Ride and other services, visit beachescoa.org.
