For more than 5 years, Uber has helped Marylanders with access to reliable, affordable transportation options and flexible work opportunities. To date, Uber has helped facilitate millions of rides and provided economic opportunities to more than 30,000 Maryland residents.

During our push to keep the Uber you know and love in Maryland, we have heard just how impactful this access to flexible work can be, directly from our driver-partners. See below for their stories in their own words, then show your support by signing the petition here.

The Uber platform is one of the greatest inventions ever. I graduated with my masters in computer science and waited for 3 months without a job. I was spending the little money I had but nothing was coming in. I decided to take a bold step and venture into the Uber partnership which was my best decision ever. Though still in the market for a job I have peace of mind because I can meet up with my bills and take care of my two kids and wife driving for Uber. I really encourage more drivers to join the platform and you will be glad you did. The scheduling is flexible because you operate like a boss and relax like a CEO.

– Driver Partner, Paul Lelekumo, Maryland

Driving for Uber is my way of helping the community stay safe from potential drunk drivers and assisting individuals with maintaining employment because of the reasonable fares associated with ridesharing options. When I’m not driving for Uber my professional career consists of education, community work, and operating several for profit businesses centered around health and wellness. The main reason I started driving for Uber was due to the ability to work at my own pace especially while maintaining a healthy relationship with my family. Usually when an adult is working a second job is extremely difficult to maintain a healthy relationship with your loved ones because of the added schedule requirements. Working for Uber has been the best decision I have made when seeking additional income for my family.

-Driver Partner, Juan Nance Sr, Baltimore

Uber allows me the freedom to design my day. I’m able to control my fibromyalgia and still work to support myself. In addition to Uber, I’m a full-time Social Worker. I have two Masters degrees and am looking forward to working towards my Doctorate. I love connecting with people. Uber affords me the opportunity to hear personal stories from riders and provide them with a different perspective on what is happening in their lives. I’ve had countless rewarding interactions with riders, including one who told me I convinced her to follow her dreams to attend cosmetology school in New York. Uber is exactly what I need in my life right now.

-Driver Partner, Kym Nixon, Baltimore

I am a breast cancer survivor four months ago and Uber gave me back my life to meet new people, talking. It is a great job and I love driving for Uber.

-Driver Partner, Naomi Jones, Baltimore

I’m retired, and driving for Uber supplements my social security income.  I have more freedom to accomplish what I want.

-Driver Partner, Joseph Green Jr., Baltimore