The Trans Canada through Boularderie. Snapped on one of my many drives from Baddeck to North Sydney.

We all have to get around. It’s a fact of life.

Especially in this day and age, when so many families are spread out all over the country, getting around is a big part of our lives. We fly, drive, ride the bus or train – however we get around, we as humans like and need to get from Point A to Point B.

In the Maritimes, the way we do that is going to change. VIA Rail is reducing their already-reduced run of trains. And more recently, we found out that Acadian Lines Bus Services will no longer be running in the Maritimes, as of November. Acadian Lines provides passenger travel, as well as small package shipping. This is going to affect a fair number of folks, and my guess is they’ll mostly be low-income people.

Luckily, there are some folks exemplifying typical Maritimes “get er done”-ness (is that a word? I’m going to say yes) and using this situation to champion a better way to get around.

Maritime Rideshare is the website. They’re asking, “What if?” What if people could rideshare on a grand scale? Instead of just asking your friends if they’re going to Halifax this weekend, and whether or not you can bum a ride, on Maritime Rideshare you have access to all kinds of rides, and can offer your own, as well. You can set your price. It’s well designed and easy to use.

And now that website is looking for a few dollars to make some upgrades which would make them even more awesome, like the ability to rate drivers and make comments on drivers that would help other users find the best rides. This video is the two cute designers/creators of the Rideshare website explaining (3 minutes):

So if you’ve got a few spare $$$ to donate, you’ll want to go to the Maritime Rideshare page on Indiegogo (a website that helps people fundraise for pretty much anything). You’ll get a sweet perk for whichever dollar amount you choose. I like posters so I went with the $40 dollar option.

See you on the road!