A Volunteer Driver's Story from Polk County

Story from LaDonna, a volunteer driver in Polk County.

After 26 years as a schoolteacher, I thought I had a good handle on what it meant to care for people. But when I started driving for New Growth Transit, I discovered just how many people are quietly struggling—especially in the rural places I’ve called home my whole life.

What really surprised me was realizing how many folks simply have no one. I’ve always had a big family. If I ever needed a ride, I figure I can simply calla cousin, an aunt, somebody. I took that for granted. But through this program, I kept hearing riders say they didn’t have anyone—not a single person to help get them to the doctor, the grocery store, or anywhere.

It hit home one day when I picked up an older woman who lives way out on a gravel road, tucked between pastureland and timber. She’s lived in that same country home most of her adult life—long driveway, porch swing, the works. She told me her son, who used to give her rides, had passed away just a few months earlier. Her other son lives out of state and won’t have anything to do with her. She was completely alone. Grief-stricken. Scared. And yet, so relieved to see me.

She didn’t need much—just a ride to town for a doctor’s appointment. But to her, it meant everything. I remember her smile when I pulled into her drive, and how she held back tears on the way home, just grateful someone cared enough to come.

That day, something shifted for me. I started to realize how quickly a person’s world can shrink when they lose their only ride. Out here, we don’t have buses or taxis. If your support system vanishes, it’s not just inconvenient—it’s isolating, even dangerous.

For me, driving is more than getting someone from point A to B. It’s a way to show up for people who feel forgotten. Sometimes, all they really want is for someone to listen. Getting an opportunity to simply visit with another person is a huge relief in itself. I think of it as a kind of ministry—one with open roads and open hearts.

Volunteering with New Growth Transit has become one of the most meaningful things I’ve done. I set my own schedule, drive where I’m comfortable, and meet incredible people along the way. I just wish more folks knew how big a difference one small ride can make.

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A similar story as LaDonna's can be heard from all our drivers. It's unimaginably common for people to be isolated and stranded. Even if they have someone who can give them a ride, it can be hard to access a ride for ALL their needs, especially when medical appointments are frequent.

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You can read about James who needs to be at the clinic in the next town over twice a week.

Or read about Yvette who's been physically challenged since she was 19.

Or read about Dustin who just needs a ride to work at times when his family or friends can't so he can keep his job.

Or read about Jonny whose daughter with her own long commute to work too would have to make an impossible choice without help.

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If you’d like to become a volunteer driver, we’d love to hear from you!

Set your own schedule, get reimbursed for mileage, and make a real difference—one ride at a time.

Call 417-283-7991
Apply online at newgrowthtransit.org

Can’t drive but you still want to help?
Donate to support mileage reimbursements for the volunteers who give their time to keep neighbors get to where they very much need to go.

Give online: https://bit.ly/NewGrowthTransitDonate
Or mail donations to:
New Growth Transit
c/o West Central MO Community Action Agency
112 W 4th St, Appleton City, MO 64724

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