Sallys Fund Inc

The mission of Sally’s Fund is to make it possible for the Senior Citizens and the disabled of Laguna Beach to continue living independently by providing transportation and other essential services, thereby enhancing the quality and dignity of lives.

In 1982, a group of Laguna Beach citizens were drawn together by a common concern for frail seniors in the community who were struggling to remain independent in their homes. A move to institutional living was on their horizon because they no longer had supportive transportation to medical appointments or to shop for food and other essentials. Many of these seniors had given a great deal to others in their lives, but now lacked family members who could provide support and transportation. Soon it became apparent that the need was extensive and could not be met on a regular basis simply by volunteers. Walter and Ann von Gremp generously provided significant financial support to hire part-time employees and the new non-profit was named Sally’s Fund in honor of Walt’s beloved mother who had recently died. It became a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity in 1986..

As the population continues to age, there are many challenges we must address to ensure seniors have transportation to healthcare, the ability to meet nutritional needs and the opportunity to engage with others, thus reducing isolation. As more senior’s desire to remain in their homes as they age, they face difficulty in accomplishing tasks on their own and Accessible transportation service is critical.

Sally’s Fund services benefits senior citizens in our community by firstly creating- independence.

• Providing a sense of freedom so that minimal disruption is seen in their day-to-day life after they no longer drive. Having the ability to continue daily activities and routines is key to longevity.

Secondly, focusing on emotional well being
• When seniors surrender their keys the emotional and physical impact can be difficult. We do our best to reduce the anxiety and depression when they can no longer drive. We increase good health by ensuring the attendance of medical appointments and participation in social activities which are essential elements of healthy aging.

Thirdly, respite for Family Caregivers.
When a senior loses his mobility, it typically becomes the duty of family members to provide transportation. This can quickly become difficult for the ones responsible who balance their careers, families, social life, and other responsibilities. Sally’s Fund allows family members to continue with their other duties knowing their loved ones are cared for and given access to the outside world.

And we improve Quality of life with our service and friendship, transporting to appts, out to socialize and have a good time ensuring they aren’t sacrificing their remaining years by not being able to drive. Sally's Fund ensures that seniors still live as they choose and don’t feel limited by their diminished driving capacity. Many of our staff members have formed lasting relationship, making plans with them outside of transportation necessity, taking them shopping, or out for dinner or by listening to their needs and concerns.

Just because you can no longer drive doesn’t mean that life as they knew it needs to stop.

We are proud to be able to make a difference in so many people’s lives, it the small stuff that makes a huge difference- it’s ensuring seniors have access to good health care and nutrition, letting seniors know they are not alone and connecting them with resources that they need. it’s truly a gift to be able to be able to bring peace of mind, friendship, and comfort to those who are in need.

Sally’s Fund is committed to meeting the needs of senior transportation and so much more, but we couldn’t do it without you and I want to thank you for all your support so that we are able to grow and expand. It’s been a privilege to be here today, thank you for allowing me to share info about SF. I hope you all have a wonderful day.

As the population continues to age, and public transportation remains difficult to access. Sally’s Fund is expanding to meet the need for those with age related issues, such as visual and mobility impairment. Within the next 5 years, our fleet will increase from 4 vehicles to 7. Drivers will increase from 10 to 14. The number of seniors we are expected to serve will increase by 20% with annual rides exceeding 7,000. The infrastructure of Sally's Fund must expand to manage the impending growth. Efficient scheduling along with a full-time onsite dispatcher will be installed. The rapid growth of the senior population makes it imperative to expand.

Sally's Fund provides assisted and escorted transportation to senior residents of Laguna Beach within a 30 mile radius. In addition, bi-monthly outings within Orange County to cultural events are provided to increase activity and social engagement. We also take veterans to the Long Beach VA, which is outside of our 30 mile radius.

As our population continues to age, communities nationwide face growing challenges in ensuring older adults have reliable access to healthcare, essential services, and meaningful social connection. Transportation remains a critical link between seniors and the community-based support systems that help them thrive.

Through its door-to-door, assisted and escorted transportation services within a 30-mile radius of Laguna Beach, Sally’s Fund helps reduce anxiety and supports seniors in staying mobile, independent, and engaged. The ability to attend medical appointments, run errands, and spend time with friends and family plays a vital role in reducing isolation and loneliness while promoting overall health and longevity.

When transportation is unavailable, even highly engaged seniors can become isolated after losing the ability to drive. Relying on others for rides can lead to feelings of frustration or being a burden. Personalized transportation services like Sally’s Fund help remove these barriers, restoring independence and improving quality of life.

As always, thank you for being part of our caring Sally’s Fund community.

Warm regards,
**Rachael Berger**
Executive Director

As the population ages, ensuring seniors have access to healthcare, nutritious food, and social connection is increasingly important. Reliable transportation plays a critical role in maintaining seniors’ physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. Sally’s Fund provides door-to-door, assisted and escorted transportation within a 30-mile radius of Laguna Beach, reducing anxiety and helping older adults remain mobile, socially connected, and independent.
Research shows that when seniors stop driving, they face increased risks of isolation, depression, and declines in physical and cognitive health, along with significant reductions in social networks—effects that are especially pronounced for women. By offering dependable transportation and opportunities for social engagement, Sally’s Fund helps mitigate these risks and supports seniors in aging safely in their homes with dignity and independence.