In 1989, after two teens died on prom night, Dr. Thomas Shaver, the trauma director at Mission Hospital, created a “safe rides” program for Orange County. Seventeen years, later, over 200 teenagers from eleven high schools are passionate about this program and committed to its success. South County Safe Rides’ 200 teens serve over 29,000 high school students by being available on Friday and Saturday nights from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Since 1993, this youth program has transported more than 3,000 middle and high school students, potentially saving lives with each transport. Through this program, Mission Hospital has formed a high performance, compassionate team who has learned the value of life and developed a sense of responsibility for themselves, their peers and communities.