The Lamorinda Spirit Van recently marked its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of providing essential transportation for older adults and residents across Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda. 

    The Spirit Van currently operates a fleet of five vehicles with a dedicated team of volunteer drivers and dispatch staff, coordinating thousands of rides each year to medical appointments, grocery shopping, exercise classes, social visits, and community events.

    In 2025 alone, the program provided over 5,200 rides, reflecting both rising demand and the organization’s continued commitment to meeting it.

    The anniversary celebration brought together riders, volunteers, staff, partners, and local officials to recognize the impact of the program and the people who make it possible and included a heartfelt tribute to Mary Bruns, the visionary who launched the Spirit Van and devoted 16 years of tireless dedication to building and nurturing the program. 

    Often described as the “spirit” behind Spirit Van, Bruns’ legacy was honored through the presence of her daughters, who attended in her place and shared reflections on her deep commitment to the community and the lasting impact of her work.

    As the organization looks ahead, its mission remains steady: to ensure that transportation is never a barrier to connection, dignity, or quality of life.