Our
History

With a commitment to making transportation a right, not a privilege, Drive And Thrive continues to build stronger, more connected communities.

Drive And Thrive, formerly Sauers Cares, was founded in 2019 by Stephanie Sauers-Boyd, whose passion for local causes was ignited when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000. The organization, which began as personal involvement with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, quickly grew to a broader mission of addressing diverse community needs. By mobilizing a deep network of local resources, Sauers Cares empowered nonprofits with funding and logistical support, aiming to create a better, healthier, and more inclusive environment for the Bucks and Montgomery County community. In just five short years, Sauers Cares partnered with more than 30 area organizations addressing issues from food insecurity and homelessness to cancer support and youth development to name just a few.  

In 2024, Sauers Cares began to research gaps in the services provided to the local community.

While many needs were being addressed by the hundreds of non-profit organizations in the Philadelphia suburbs, one necessity seemed to be underrepresented… transportation. While Philadelphia boasts a robust transit system, suburban counties like Bucks and Montgomery have significantly lower transit accessibility scores. For instance, Bucks County has a transit score of 2.6, and Montgomery County scores 4.5, compared to Philadelphia’s score of 9.0. This disparity makes personal vehicles a necessity for most residents. Approximately 4.7% of households in Bucks County and 7% of households in Montgomery County lack access to a vehicle, highlighting the urgent need for transportation solutions. The lack of available programs disproportionately affects low-income residents, limiting their access to employment, education, and healthcare.

In August of 2024, Drive And Thrive held its first car clinic providing free car care to 15 single mothers in the community. As each family drove away with a fresh oil change, fluids topped off, and a plan to ensure vehicle needs are met before their next inspection, their smiles confirmed we’d found our purpose. 

Drive And Thrive was created to  address transportation needs through four cornerstone programs:

• Empower Wheels Car Clinic: Free maintenance for underprivileged individuals.
• Emergency Maintenance Program: Assisting individuals with immediate vehicle concerns.
• Fuel Assistance Program: Helping families afford both gas.