Together on the move
Combating loneliness – one rickshaw ride at a time:
Many older people feel lonely because they are no longer as mobile as they used to be. Our project gets them back outside – with a rickshaw!
Our goal
We want to overcome isolation, promote inclusion and bring joy to people’s lives – one small rickshaw ride can make a big difference.
What we do
Volunteer drivers (called pilots) take seniors on rickshaw rides through the neighbourhood, to the park, or on small trips. These rides create opportunities for connection, conversations and new contacts. By building lasting partnerships between seniors and pilots, we hope to foster genuine friendships and help people avoid loneliness.
Why it matters
- Community instead of loneliness: The rides create connection and joy.
- Participation in everyday life: Seniors get to experience nature, culture, and their social environment again.
- Intergenerational exchange: Young and old meet, talk and learn from each other.
How it works:
- Our volunteer pilots receive careful training to ensure that every ride is safe, reliable and respectful.
- Drivers and seniors get to know each other in personal meetings, which builds trust and a first connection.
- Afterwards, we form teams that are a good match, consisting of people who are compatible and enjoy spending time together.
- Once a team has been found, regular rides can begin—free of charge for the seniors, of course.
Want to join us?
You can find us here:
Berliner Platz 10, 99091 Erfurt
Do you have any questions or ideas? Just send us an email at: n.kondrikova[at]soziale-dienste-jugendhilfe.de
This project is carried out with financial support from the German TV Lottery (Deutsche Fernsehlotterie) and in cooperation with “Cycling Without Age” (Radeln ohne Alter).
