Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does "STRIPES" stand for?
A: STRIPES stands for Supportive Tigers Riding In Pursuit of Ensuring Safety.
Q: Why does my ride sometimes take a long time?
A: STRIPES generally has seven cars running on weekend nights. Each ride is dispatched on a first-come first-served basis. During peak operating times, including when bars close, each car can have six or more rides waiting in line. STRIPES does its best to be efficient, but lack of volunteers can slow us down. The best way to get a ride is to plan ahead.
Q: Where do you pick up/drop off?
A: STRIPES will pick up and take home MU students anywhere within Columbia city limits. STRIPES will not drop you off at a party, bar, gas station, or intersection. If volunteers discover a drop off location is in fact a party or otherwise not the home of the patron, our drivers have the right to take the patron(s) back to the pick up location.
Q: Do you guys get paid?
A: Our volunteers are just that -- volunteers. They are paid with the knowledge that they helped keep Columbia streets safe. STRIPES accepts and appreciates tips, which help with operational costs, as well as board games, food, and beverages for our volunteers.
Q: I called for a ride but found another safe ride home - how do I cancel my ride?
A: We're glad you found a ride! We'd appreciate it if you could call back into our main number (573-442-9672) and let us know you found a ride so we can quickly move on to other students that are waiting for rides.
Q: I think I left something in the STRIPES car - what do I do?
A: STRIPES cars are searched at the end of each night. If you suspect you lost something the same night you received a ride, call our main number and we will have our volunteers search the car. If you realize the next day you may have lost something, email us and we'll get back to you ASAP. After the weekend is over, all of the lost and found items can be picked up on the second floor of the MU Student Center (above the bookstore).
Q: Can my friends or parents from out of town get a ride too?
A: Absolutely! As long as one of the patrons getting a ride has a MU student ID, we will give your group of friends a ride.
Q: What are the STRIPES Rights?
A: The STRIPES rights are the rights we read to each passenger once they are picked up and before the ride beings. These rules exist for the safety of our volunteers and patrons. They are as follows:
"STRIPES reserves the right to terminate this ride at any time. Using tobacco and possessing alcohol or drugs in this vehicle is strictly prohibited. We reserve the right to notify the police or hospital if necessary. Predatory drug test kits are available upon request. STRIPES agrees to drive you to (YOUR HOME). Please buckle up."