When our referring partner, North Idaho College’s Center for New Directions (CND), first met Sophie, she was a teen mom, unsure if college was even a possibility, given her circumstances.

After encouraging her that college was most definitely an option for her and sharing about supports available to Sophie, Louisa Rogers with CND gave her action items to complete. to begin the process of enrolling in school. Sophie completed these steps quickly and asked for more next steps. She registered for classes as soon as she was able.

However, a barrier for her moving forward was transportation. Getting to and from college classes was essential, and that was a piece of the puzzle Sophie didn’t have.

Rides for a Reason was able to wrap around her and provide her a vehicle that allowed her to pursue her education. She has proven to be an excellent student. She is incredibly bright. Her investment in her future and her son's future is changing the trajectory of their lives.

Sophie says:

"I wouldn't be able to pursue an education without a car. The Rides car has allowed me to get my son to daycare and get to campus. Since I have been in school, I feel like I have more direction. I am working towards a goal, which is important for me as a young, single mom. I am working towards a career that can support me and my son. I have one more year at NIC and then I plan to transfer to U of I.”



Sophie didn’t have any credit before she received the low interest loan through RIDES (provided by partner, Mountain West Bank). Now, Sophie has really good credit and is able to meet her monthly payment of $50.

Sophie shared: “Financially, I wouldn't have been able to get a car for a loan at a typical dealership. I am super grateful for the opportunity this program has provided me.”

“I was just talking to a woman who has a car that is always breaking down and she told me that she is one good vehicle away from success. I realized after that conversation how grateful I am to have a reliable vehicle."