FISH (Friends In Service Here), is a longstanding non-profit organization in Glastonbury established 53 years ago. The organization provides transportation to out of town medical and social service appointments for Glastonbury residents.
Unlike the town's Dial-A-Ride service, which is limited to within Glastonbury's boundaries, FISH extends its services to neighboring communities, including Hartford, East Hartford, West Hartford, Manchester, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and the UConn Medical Center area in Farmington. This broader reach ensures that residents can access essential services beyond the town's limits.
The organization operates four days a week, accepting appointments between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Volunteer drivers use their personal vehicles and cover their own fuel expenses. Each ride may require several hours, accounting for travel to the residents’ home, transportation to and from the appointment, and waiting time. Drivers may be assigned more than one client on their given day.
Currently, FISH maintains a roster of approximately 75 volunteers. This is a fluid number, so we are always seeking new candidates willing to donate at least one day a month to the cause according to Linda Ball who schedules the drivers. Last year the organization provided nearly 800 rides. The demand continues to increase. Many residents may be transported on multiple occasions due to ongoing medial needs such as chemotherapy, dialysis, physical therapy or more.
“We believe we are serving more than the passenger” according to Carol Sue Schmidt, co-president, “since we are often taking the burden off family members who may otherwise have to miss work or juggle their own child care needs.”
Volunteers are primarily Glastonbury residents, many with deep roots in the community. Their familiarity with the area and neighboring towns enhances the quality of service provided. The organization emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming any individual with a valid driver's license to participate. There are no membership fees, and the annual organizational meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about FISH's services. Volunteers will sponsor a table at the Glastonbury Community Center Health Fair recently to ensure that community members are aware of the service, to recruit volunteers and encourage donations.
By joining the team, volunteers can make a tangible difference in the lives of their neighbors, ensuring that transportation barriers do not impede access to essential services.
Individuals in need of transportation may schedule a ride by calling 860-647-3911 by noon on the day prior to the appointment. For more information or to volunteer, residents are encouraged to contact FISH by emailing fishofglastonbury@gmail.com.