Moving Forward

At first, I didn’t think I would qualify for Ride United. I’m independent—I don’t have kids or a disability—so I often don’t qualify for many types of assistance.

Transportation was one of my biggest challenges. Before Ride United, I was paying for Lyfts out of pocket, which added up fast, especially with long distances. My family helped when they could, but rides weren’t always available when I needed them.

I was nervous to try Ride United, but I made the call and was approved. That one recommendation truly changed my path. When I started using the service, I was 21. It helped me get to work consistently and earn my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license.

Ride United also supported me in signing up for adult driver’s education so I could finally get my license. I took the road test a couple of times, and when I passed on my birthday, it felt like a huge accomplishment.

Now I’m financing my own car and paying my own car note—another big step forward. Ride United is helping me manage the loan and payments, too.

I’m currently in school to become an anesthesia technician, and my goal is to eventually transfer to Wayne State to enter their anesthesiologist program. I want to gain as much experience as I can along the way.

I truly relate to ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). When I graduated from high school, I went straight to college. I’ve been balancing school, work, and life ever since. Living in Michigan is expensive—you’ve got rent, a car note, food, and all the extras just to stay afloat.

That’s why I started my own small business, Marie’s Candles LLC, in 2021 during my senior year of high school. I also make jewelry as a hobby, and having that creative outlet helps me keep going.

Ride United didn’t just help me get from place to place—it helped me move forward in life.