Vinnie Hogan, Shalom Austin Transportation Specialist gives a ride to those in need. Credit: Rebecca Golden

Shalom Austin Mobility is a service provided by Shalom Austin Jewish Family Service that provides transportation to adults over 60, and adults with mobility challenges. These rides span from facilitating visits to the Dell Jewish Community Center, various JFS programs and services, medical appointments, and even enabling trips to visit loved ones in a rehabilitation center.

In September, SAM marked a significant milestone by purchasing a new bus that can seat up to ten passengers and is equipped with wheelchair accessibility. This chapter redefines the way JFS serves the community and is a testament to JFS’ commitment to inclusivity.

The program is operated by the dedicated Transportation Specialist Vinnie Hogan, who exudes enthusiasm and commitment to his role. “At JFS, expanding the circle of inclusion and accessibility is very important. Thanks to our remarkable leadership and generosity of our donors, we have achieved a major victory in the pursuit of that mission,” Hogan expressed, beaming with pride.

Supervising SAM is JFS Case Management Director Hilary Katz, whose leadership has been instrumental in the program’s growth since its launch in late 2022. Katz and Hogan have steered the program from providing rides to a handful of clients monthly to now accommodating more than 40 rides weekly.

Reflecting on the journey, Hogan remarked, “For the past year, I’ve been a one-man show. Juggling both driving and coordinating with clients has been both challenging and immensely rewarding. Operating a single vehicle laid the groundwork for our program, offering rides to a small group of one to three individuals at a time. But now, with this new bus, the capacity has expanded, allowing up to ten individuals to travel together. We are on the brink of furthering our impact within the community, and it’s an exhilarating time for us.”