Meet HopSkipDrive CareDriver Roxie McClenton

Before she retired, Roxie McClenton spent 20 years taking care of children as the owner of a family daycare center. When she found out about HopSkipDrive, she thought being a CareDriver sounded like the perfect way for her to keep busy in retirement while continuing to help children.

Recently certified on the HopSkipDrive platform, she has completed more than 120 trips in her first few months as a HopSkipDrive CareDriver in the Los Angeles market.

What made you decide to become a CareDriver?

My passion is and will always be youth. Being a HopSkipDrive CareDriver seemed like a way for me to keep busy and still be engaged with children.

How did you hear about HopSkipDrive?

I kept seeing HopSkipDrive CareDrivers out and about. I stopped and asked a CareDriver about it, who told me she absolutely loves driving for HopSkipDrive. That was several years ago. After two years of being shut in due to COVID-19, I was looking for something to do. So I decided to try HopSkipDrive. And here we are!

What do you like most about being a CareDriver?

Being able to schedule my rides — I especially like scheduling a ride series. Driving can be stressful but knowing where I’m going daily helps a lot. So far, all of my rides have been great! 

Tell us about your caregiving experience and the role it plays in the work you do as a CareDriver.

Being educated and working in early childhood development for over 20 years gives me insight into the habits and behaviors of my Riders. My knowledge helps me recognize the moods of Riders and gives me the ability to speak to issues that may arise during a ride.

Have you had any special experiences with Riders that have been meaningful to you?

My afternoon ride has four Riders who attend a special school for highly gifted students. These young men are the best! We engage in conversation most days, and they all have something interesting to say. 

Have you learned anything surprising from your Riders?

My afternoon guys are all full of knowledge and insight. Yesterday, we talked about a movie I watched over the weekend, which turned out to be one of their favorites. We discussed our favorite scenes. 

What advice would you give to someone who may be considering becoming a CareDriver?

If you have a passion for children and don’t have a problem driving, you will love HopSkipDrive.

Do you tell other people about HopSkipDrive?

I tell everybody I know! Ohhh, and let me add that the pay is not bad, either.

Do you have any advice you think would be useful for other CareDrivers?

Love what you do! Also, I play jazz or classical music in my car. 

How important do you think HopSkipDrive’s mission (to create opportunity for all through mobility) is, and why?

HopSkipDrive is awesome . . . for parents, schools and other organizations. GREAT IDEA!

 

Interested in earning money while making a difference as a certified HopSkipDrive CareDriver?

Visit hopskipdrive.com/drive to apply today!