Volunteer Profiles - Ready Steady – Driving Change in Santa Cruz County

Ready Steady is more than just a transportation service—it’s a mission-driven company rooted in care, community, and compassion. Their purpose is to provide dependable, considerate, and customized transportation for elders and individuals with mobility challenges. With a focus on door-through-door wheelchair and gurney services, Ready Steady uses skilled drivers and modern scheduling systems to ensure every ride is a step toward greater access, dignity, and quality of life.

Meet the Founder: Matt Saltzman

Matt has a history of community involvement, including volunteer work contributing to the logistics of delivering essential supplies to families during the Pajaro River cleanup. His commitment to service extends into Ready Steady’s mission, where the team goes above and beyond to provide door-through-door assistance, ensuring every client receives safe, timely, and compassionate care.

Beyond his professional work, Matt is deeply involved in the community, and was honored for his service at the 2024 Be the Difference Awards. During the Pajaro River Cleanup Campaign, he personally contributed to the logistics of delivering essential supplies to displaced families—an experience that reinforced his commitment to service. As a father, community member, and business leader, Matt brings a spirit of care and connection to everything Ready Steady does.

A Philosophy Grounded in Service

Ready Steady deeply values community engagement. Matt and his team believe volunteerism is critical because it allows a directly connection with the individuals they serve, helps his team understand their client’s challenges, and demonstrate a commitment to their client’s well-being. It’s about being more than just a service; it’s about being a supportive presence in the community, supporting other community partners with their mission, and creating meaning amongst their own teammates by providing opportunities to see the bigger picture of support and compassion.

How Ready Steady Shows Up

Ready Steady takes a hands-on, service-first approach to community engagement. Their volunteer efforts include providing complimentary transportation to key local events—such as senior wellness workshops, community benefits, and nonprofit meetings. They actively partner with local nonprofits that support seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The company is also developing an internal volunteer program that will offer employees paid time off to support causes they are passionate about. These efforts not only serve the community, but help foster a sense of purpose and pride within the team.

When Volunteering Becomes a Lifeline

One of Ready Steady’s most impactful volunteer efforts took place during the Pajaro River Cleanup Campaign. When organizers struggled to find reliable transportation for delivering essential supplies—like food, clothing, and toys—to displaced families, Ready Steady stepped in.

For over three months, the team committed two vehicles and two drivers, making deliveries twice a week. Their consistent presence became a cornerstone of the relief effort. With transportation handled, the campaign organizers were able to focus on outreach, resource coordination, and donation management.

The experience left a lasting impression on the Ready Steady team. Drivers returned with powerful stories about the gratitude and relief they witnessed—stories that quickly spread within the organization, inspiring others and reinforcing their shared mission. This moment reminded the entire team that their work goes beyond logistics—they are part of a broader ecosystem of care.

Why Volunteerism Matters in Business

Ready Steady encourages other businesses to view volunteerism as a meaningful investment. It builds social capital, strengthens community trust, and enhances employee engagement. It’s also an authentic way to demonstrate care and responsibility—not just toward customers, but toward the broader community.

As Ready Steady continues to grow, their commitment to volunteerism remains central. Whether providing rides, partnering with nonprofits, or empowering employees to give back, they are proud to be a reliable force for good in Santa Cruz County.

Learn more about Ready Steady Transportation Services at https://readysteadytransportservices.com/