A MODERN AND UNIQUE PERSONAL DRIVING SERVICE PUTS ITS PASSENGERS IN THE HANDS OF LAW ENFORCEMENT, AND IN THE COMFORT OF THEIR OWN CAR

BY LAURA D.C. KOLNOSK

Transportation services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the on demand ridership experience in dozens of cities, via mobile apps that book rides instantly and conveniently. A New York/New Jersey company has taken the concept a leap further.
GARDIAN provides personal drivers throughout the tri state area, getting customers to destinations safely while in the comfort of their own vehicle. In addition, the company puts its passengers in the hands of drivers who are active or retired law enforcement. Just like boldface celebrities and VIPs, GARDIAN customers arrive at restaurants, concerts, nightclubs, and business meetings, door to door, with their own personal driver. Date nights, day trips, shore excursions, shopping, celebrations, and Broadway shows are some of the other popular applications of the locally unique service and like other ride companies, access is achieved through a mobile app, augmented by a company concierge a specialist who assists with the process, including reservations.

A team of local entrepreneurs developed the company. One of its principals, Raymond Chaparro Jr., brings 25 years of experience as a retired Detective Lieutenant of the Long Branch, New Jersey Police Department. (One of his secondary goals for the business was creating new income opportunities for retired or active law enforcement and military personnel.)

“Safety doesn’t happen by accident. As a retired police officer and father of three daughters, I want to ensure that whoever is attending to [clients] will protect them and drive them carefully,” Chaparro said. “I take pride in knowing they will get to their destinations safe and secure.” Drivers are security cleared, interviewed, and vetted, in part via DBS (Disclosure and Barring Services) checks from local authorities. They are skilled in multiple areas, including defensive driving, first aid, and self defense adding a level of safety that is unavailable in any other travel service. In addition, clients never risk driving drunk and do not have to deal with the challenges of unfamiliar directions, traffic, or finding parking, especially when venturing to hot spots in Manhattan or high volume entertainment and sports venues, and a driver rating system ensures company standards are upheld.
Most importantly, GARDIAN’S rates are affordable, allowing users to experience this luxury service at a rate of $35 per hour, including gratuities. There are no parking or valet fees, and the result is significantly more cost effective than a limousine.

“At the click a button, your own personal driver is at your service; it’s wonderful,” said Angelo Mendola, co founder of the Red Bank, New Jersey based Company Priority Payments, who began using the service last year. “They take you wherever you need to go with a sense of luxury, style, and safety. The service is amazing and I love not having to park ever again!”

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GARDIAN LLC.
570-GARDIAN (570.427.3426) / gardian.com
Download the app: Text “GARDIAN“ to 797979
Facebook and Instagram @ gardiandrivers

Nicole Spread