New amenities for 225-RIDE volunteers Published Aug. 27, 2014 By 2d Lt. Ashley Wright 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- There's good news for those who volunteer for Yokota's 225-RIDE program; the volunteer facility will be receiving new upgrades that will make the time between dispatch calls more enjoyable for volunteers. The existing 225-RIDE facility will receive a new TV, coffee maker, video game system and laptop computers. "This is our way of saying 'thank you' to our volunteers," said Master Sgt. Nelson Tomala, 225-RIDE director for the Top 3 organization. "We're expecting to receive the funds within the next two weeks to have everything purchased and installed." 225-RIDE is a Top 3 coordinated program that aims to prevent Airmen from driving under the influence by providing free, alternative transportation back home after consuming alcohol. The service is available to Airmen every Friday and Saturday from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. "The program has become more and more popular in the last few years," Tomala said. "Rather than deciding to jump in a vehicle after a beer, {Airmen} say 'let's call 225-RIDE.'" There are two shifts available each night-- the first is from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. and the second from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. Professional private organizations play a big role in the program; First 4, Route 5/6 and Top 3 are each responsible for providing volunteers for one weekend a month. "It's a good feeling to get out there and volunteer," Tomala said. "Even {volunteering} once or twice shows that you care."