I Made It

I first heard about Ride United in 2022, while in recovery for alcohol. I was able to use the free rides to get to work, but I didn’t reach my goal of getting a vehicle.

Earlier this year, I found another job and I called Ride United to see about free rides again. There was only one problem: I already used almost all my ride credits.

The social navigator asked if I had a license, and I didn’t due to unpaid tickets. She recommended I connect with one of her team members to get it restored. Tim was as great as she said he’d be; he was very understanding and passionate.

I thought United Way would be like other places that you ask for help and they make you feel bad, but it was nothing like that. It was like I was doing Tim a favor by letting him do me a favor.

After Ride United paid 99% of the tickets, I had to pay a small part in Westland. When I walked out of the courthouse, there was a half rainbow next to the shining sun. I know it was God telling me that I made it. It was freeing.

I called Tim and we celebrated over the phone. He emailed me a voucher to pay for my reinstatement fee and driver’s test. I took the voucher downtown, passed the written test and the following Friday, I passed my driver’s test.

Last week, my license came in the mail. I’m looking at my face on it, it’s looking back at me, and I am so happy. It’s surreal to not have the tickets hanging over my head.

I’m renting a vehicle now and it feels great. It’s not only being free of the ticket’s negative consequences, but also the freedom of being able to drive myself— that’s paramount.

I can’t thank Ride United enough. It was their patience; calling and checking up on me. In these times, so many people need so much and you guys see the people truly trying to help themselves.

For me, this story is definitely the grace of God. It’s a blessing and I appreciate you guys every step of the way.

– Brian Myers, Livonia