ABOUT US | VRUnm

OUR MISSION

Educating and advocating, so that all who use NM roadways are respected, safe, and accountable!

VRUnm is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the safety of *vulnerable road users* in New Mexico. We raise awareness about road safety and provide resources and support to those whose lives are devastated by traffic violence.

If you would like to help support our cause, we would love to hear from you. Please visit our "Get Involved" page to learn about the different ways you can help. Together, we can make a difference and create a safer future for all who use our roadways!

*Vulnerable Road Users are any persons who are outside the protection of a motor vehicle. Walkers/runners, bicyclists, persons riding motorcycles, road crews, and many others are all vulnerable road users. They are at particular risk due to the far greater size, speed, and maneuverability of cars, trucks, and SUVs.

OUR BOARD of DIRECTORS

Executive Director/President; founder

Barbara Toth

"I find it redemptive to share my husband's and my story! Talking about the hardships we experience daily because of a negligent driver really communicates how vital it is to make good choices behind the wheel of a motor vehicle."

Vice-President

Donald Wilson

"I work with VRUnm and other advocacy organizations because it's very important to me to be part of making roads safer for cyclists, pedestrians, and others in the Mesilla Valley."

Treasurer

Longino Bustillos

"We all ask ourselves if we've done enough to make a difference in our world. Working with VRUnm is the perfect way for me to do that by sharing the message with everyone about using our roads safely."

Member-at-large

David Alcala Garcia

"I am involved with VRUnm because I want to use the skills that I have to help spread awareness and to share this important message."

Member-at-large

Daniel Garcia

"I am extremely committed to educating the public about vulnerable road users, since my life was almost taken by an irresponsible motorist."

Member-at-large

Noelia de la Rosa

"As an occupational therapist in training, the safety and independence of vulnerable road users is an issue of great significance to me. I'm honored to be part of a team that works to make New Mexico roads safer for everyone."

Member-at-large

Brisa Castro

"As part of the generation of new drivers, I believe it is crucial to learn the importance of traffic safety behind the wheel. I work with student organizations, promoting safe roads for all road users. Being able to share these values with others gives me hope for safer roads in the future."

From our founder, Barbara Toth - "New Mexico is consistently at or near the top of lists indicating where the greatest number of vulnerable road users are injured and killed every year. That makes our state one of the most dangerous places for bicyclists, pedestrians, and others who choose a means of transport other than a car, truck, or SUV! In March of 2020, while riding his bicycle, my husband was struck from behind by a 17-year-old driving a truck. He sustained very serious injuries - most significantly, a broken back and partially severed spinal cord! His life was spared, but his quality of life was impacted in a number of challenging ways. How does one pick up the pieces following such an ordeal? I felt compelled to become a voice for those in our community who have suffered. There is often too little concern shown for the safety. of vulnerable road users. I have become convinced that, if all who use New Mexico's roadways can be persuaded to do so more responsibly, we can make a measurable improvement! Vulnerable Road Users NM was born out of that confidence. Along with the support of others in our community, we are determined to make changes that will positively impact the future!"

Organizational Documents

BY-LAWS (revised 12/22)