Introduction:
For more than two decades, Pierce County Human Services has led with compassion and foresight—
addressing transportation barriers that disproportionately affect vulnerable residents through the
Beyond the Borders Program. This free transportation service, available to eligible residents in East and
South Pierce County, Washington, fills a critical gap in public transit, offering services to individuals who
live outside the Pierce Transit service area, including older adults, people with disabilities, veterans,
youth aged 12–17, and individuals who identify as low-income.
The Beyond the Borders Program is designed to address three key community needs: employment
access, essential activities, and healthcare challenges. These foundational pillars have made a tangible
difference in the lives of residents who rely on this critical service to stay connected, healthy, and
independent.
Addressing Community Needs:
Since the partnership between Pierce County and Envoy America was established in April 2018, Envoy
America has delivered measurable and lasting results. Over the course of the program, Envoy America
has completed over 37,300 total trips, serving 391 unique riders. This partnership has had a profound
impact on the lives of those in need:
- 32% of all trips were dedicated to life-sustaining
medical services, such as kidney dialysis treatments
and medical appointments. - 51% of trips supported individuals—primarily those
with cognitive or physical disabilities—traveling to and
from work. - The remaining 17% of trips addressed daily living
needs, including grocery shopping, religious services,
and visits to the YMCA.
In the words of Daeveene May, Social Service Program Specialist III, Pierce County: “Envoy America has
been a trusted and valued partner in expanding the reach and impact of the Beyond the Borders
program. Their Companion Drivers consistently go above and beyond to ensure every rider feels
respected, safe, and empowered. This partnership has made a tangible difference in the lives of our
residents.”
Real-Life Impact:
The partnership’s success is not just reflected in numbers, but in the real-life stories of those served.
One such example is the story of Lisa, a mother who has seen firsthand how the Beyond the Borders
Program has transformed her son Max’s life.
“My name is Lisa, and I’m the proud mother of Max, a young man with disabilities who has a strong desire to work and contribute to his community. Getting Max to and from his job used to be one of our biggest
challenges—until we discovered the incredible transportation services provided by Beyond the Borders and Envoy America. Without their support, Max simply wouldn’t be able to maintain his job. This program has been a true lifeline for our family. The drivers are not only reliable and professional, but they also treat Max with genuine kindness, respect, and care. They know him by name, they understand his needs, and they go out of their way to make sure he feels safe and valued. It’s not just a ride—it’s a relationship built on trust and compassion.”
Envoy America’s Commitment:
At Envoy America, we are incredibly proud to partner with Pierce County on the Beyond the Borders
Program. Our Companion Drivers are the heart of what we do—they serve with empathy, patience, and
a deep sense of purpose. We are especially grateful to Pierce County for their remarkable leadership
and unwavering commitment to their residents.
“We are honored to work alongside Pierce County’s Human Services Department to serve the great residents of this county,” says Hania Kanaan, Envoy America Co-Founder and Head of Client Care & Administration. “Our Companion Drivers have done a phenomenal job serving the program participants like family. We’re not just providing transportation; we’re preserving dignity, promoting independence, and changing lives.”
Saving Lives:
The Beyond the Borders Program goes beyond transportation—it saves lives. A powerful example of this
occurred recently when Envoy America Companion Driver Penny Termini’s quick thinking saved the life
of her client, Timothy L.
Timothy, who had been using the Beyond the Borders Program for essential transportation services, did not answer his door or phone one afternoon. Penny, who had built a trusting relationship with Timothy, immediately knew something was wrong. She stayed onsite and alerted his family, and when Timothy’s stepmother arrived,
they found him unconscious from a diabetic emergency. Thanks to Penny’s quick thinking and her deep understanding of Timothy’s needs, he received emergency care in time.
“Other companies would have just left,” Timothy said. “Penny took
the extra step. That’s what saved me,”
This story exemplifies how the Beyond the Borders Program is not just about transporting people, but
about creating a safety net built on trust and compassion. It’s a service that protects lives, restores
dignity, and fosters genuine relationships.
A Model for Communities Nationwide:
The Beyond the Borders–Envoy America partnership serves as a shining example of how public-private
collaboration can address deep-rooted social challenges with dignity and compassion. Through
consistent, personalized, and mission-driven transportation services, Pierce County and Envoy America
empower residents to stay healthy, employed, connected, and independent.
In a world where transportation often defines opportunity, this partnership proves that when designed
intentionally and delivered with care, a ride can change a life. This collaboration is a model that can be
replicated in communities across the nation, demonstrating the power of compassionate, communitydriven
solutions.
Conclusion:
The Beyond the Borders Program, created and managed by Pierce County Human Services, does more
than move people—it saves lives. With the unwavering support of Envoy America, this program is
providing more than just transportation; it’s providing hope, opportunity, and a chance at a better
future for some of the most vulnerable individuals in Pierce County. Together, Pierce County and Envoy
America are leading the way in compassionate, community-centered transportation solutions.
About Pierce County Human Services Transportation Services:
Pierce County Human Services provides transportation for eligible riders in south and east Pierce County
and coordinates a local Transportation Coalition to address transportation gaps County wide. This
includes Beyond the Borders and the Pierce County Coordinated Transportation Coalition.
Apply Online: https://www.cognitoforms.com/PierceCounty2/BeyondTheBordersEligibilityForm
About Envoy America:
Envoy America is a leading provider of compassionate, technology-enabled transportation solutions for
healthcare systems, senior living communities, community-based & faith-based organizations and
individuals with mobility or cognitive challenges. Founded in 2015, the company operates nationwide,
offering specialized services that support the mobility needs of patients, older adults, people with
disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. Through its innovative Companion Driver model, Envoy
America ensures that every ride provides not only transportation but also companionship, helping
clients maintain their independence and stay connected to the community. For more information, visit
www.envoyamerica.com or contact us at 17767 N Perimeter Drive, Suite B109, Scottsdale, AZ 85255,
phone (480) 584-5894.
