A BREATH OF FRESH AIR: HOW COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS MOVED KUMBA FORWARD
For Kumba, receiving a minivan through United Way of Frederick County’s Pathway to Transportation program was more than receiving a vehicle. It was a breath of fresh air and an opportunity to move forward with renewed independence, stability, and hope.
After an accident left her without reliable transportation, Kumba faced mounting financial challenges that ultimately led to the loss of her vehicle. Without transportation, maintaining employment became increasingly difficult, limiting her ability to earn an income and pursue new professional opportunities.
While working toward a vehicle of her own, Kumba received support through United Way of Frederick County’s Ride United Network (RUN) program. By helping her get to work, RUN provided support as she navigated employment challenges and worked toward a more dependable, long-term transportation solution. The program saved Kumba $66.74 in transportation costs, helping lessen the financial burden as she worked toward greater stability and independence.
But Kumba remained determined to rebuild.
With experience in direct support services and a growing career in life insurance, Kumba had opportunities waiting for her. She simply needed a reliable way to get there. Transportation challenges had made it difficult to consistently accept work assignments, meet with clients, and pursue the full-time employment she hoped would provide greater financial stability.
Now, with her new minivan, Kumba has a renewed opportunity to do just that.
The vehicle provides the space she needs to transport seniors through her work, allowing her to better serve others while pursuing her professional goals. It will also help her commute to her new role at Frederick Health Hospital, opening the door to greater consistency and stability in her daily life.
For Kumba, this vehicle represents more than convenience. It means being able to show up for work, pursue new opportunities, and continue building a more secure future for herself and her family. As she describes it, receiving the vehicle has been “a breath of fresh air.”
This fresh start was made possible in part by an important community partner: the YMCA of Frederick County, which donated the minivan to Second Chances Garage. The donation is a powerful reminder of what can happen when local organizations come together to address the barriers facing individuals and families in our community.
Through the partnership between United Way of Frederick County and Second Chances Garage, the Pathway to Transportation program helps individuals overcome transportation challenges that stand between them and employment, financial security, and opportunity. Support from community partners like the YMCA helps make these life-changing opportunities possible.
For Kumba, her new minivan means the freedom to get to work, the ability to serve others, and a renewed sense of possibility. For our community, her story demonstrates how collaboration and generosity can create meaningful change in someone's life.
Sometimes, moving forward starts with the keys to a vehicle and the community that comes together to make it possible.
