NORMAL- A ride sharing program at Illinois State University is encouraging students to search for rides home this Thanksgiving, and as an incentive is offering one winner a free iPad.

Zimride started at ISU in February and 500 people are signed up. It's an online social rideshare program. Director of Parking and Transportation Julie North said it's a good program for people who need a ride or want to make money driving others.

"Some students don't have vehicles, they could be living on campus without a vehicle and perhaps their families live north or south of Illinois State University," North said.

Zimride is open to anyone on the ISU campus including students, faculty, and staff.

Antone from ISU that adds a ride in November will automatically be entered to win an iPad. To sign up and either find a ride or post one, go to zimride.illinoisstate.edu.

Stephanie Pawlowski can be reached at Stephanie.Pawloski@Cumulus.com