When community meetings kept circling back to one problem—transportation—Milo Kelly (pictured at right of volunteer driver Jackie) decided to do something about it. What began as a few willing drivers grew into a partnership with New Growth Transit, proving how local initiative can set real change in motion.

For many veterans in rural Missouri, getting to medical appointments means traveling long distances to reach specialized care at VA hospitals in urban areas. Volunteer drivers like Rowann Bastow make those miles possible through New Growth Transit—turning every ride into a gesture of gratitude and connection.

After five years of dreaming, Tammy Cramer took the leap and opened Blended Blessings, a pineapple whip food trailer bringing a taste of sunshine to Bolivar. With guidance from the New Growth Women’s Business Center, she turned hesitation into confidence—and a sweet idea into a thriving local business.

From parents and providers to employers and lawmakers, the call for child care solutions is growing louder. A recent forum hosted by New Growth and Kids Win Missouri put the issue front and center for families and communities across west central Missouri.

The New Growth Beginning Farmers & Ranchers Development Program helps new farmers in Missouri and Kansas gain mentorship, training, and market connections to start strong. With support from experienced farmers and partners, it builds pathways for the next generation of growers and stronger rural communities.

When a volunteer driver emailed our staff last week out of the blue, his words stopped us in our tracks. His story is a powerful reminder of why this work matters—not just for riders, but for the drivers who give so much.

Each ride is only possible because a neighbor steps up to drive—and we make sure those volunteers feel supported every mile of the way. With nearly 70 volunteers, some may wonder: how do we do that?

Parents, providers, and employers from Cedar, Henry, Polk, and St. Clair counties will sit down with invited state lawmakers to share experiences, highlight urgent needs, and discuss opportunities for real solutions and next steps.

Opening a business takes more than numbers—see how Nicole found the support through New Growth Women’s Business Center to launch Tolli Accounting in Nevada.

We're excited to announce and celebrate that with support in part from a 2025 grant from the Patterson Family Foundation, New Growth Transit is taking a big step toward long-term sustainability with much needed upgrades for technology and processes.

When Loretta Meyer faced daily cancer treatments 90 miles from home with no way to get there, a call to New Growth Transit changed everything. Today, she gives back as a volunteer driver—helping others get to critical care while mileage reimbursements help stretch her retirement income.

Child care shortages and costs in west central Missouri are holding families, businesses, and communities back—but local leaders are taking action. With research in hand and statewide support, a regional team is working on innovative solutions to expand access to quality, affordable child care.