Volunteer Driver Model Earns Continued State Backing

Rondle Dines

July 18, 2025

New Growth Transit Receives State Appropriations to Continue Rural Volunteer Driver Program

New Growth Transit is proud to announce that it has been awarded $1.75 million in Missouri state appropriations for the next fiscal year, supporting vital transportation services in rural areas of Missouri where there are few to no options for public transportation.

This marks the fourth consecutive year that the State of Missouri has recognized and supported the volunteer driver model as a meaningful solution to rural transportation challenges. New Growth Transit, along with partners Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation, Economic Security of Southwest Missouri, and Missouri Ozarks Community Action, will use this investment to serve a combined total of more than 25 Missouri counties.

“In a year when state lawmakers faced difficult budget decisions, we are deeply grateful to receive continued support,” said Kelly Ast, Chief Mobility Officer at New Growth Transit. “This investment is a testament to the power and impact of volunteer driver programs in rural areas.”

In 2024, New Growth Transit provided more than 1 million miles of free transportation, with trips averaging 48 miles each way. In some counties where the distance to neighboring metro areas is even greater, trips can average 75 miles one way. Thousands of rides have helped individuals reach life-saving medical care, access food, get to work, and stay connected to their communities. For many, these rides change lives by providing access to critical necessities that would otherwise go unmet.

Volunteer drivers are the heart of this program.

It’s remarkable how many are willing to generously donate their time and use their own vehicles to help others. Volunteer drivers receive mileage reimbursement, choose when they drive, and are fully supported by program staff and systems to ensure safety. They not only provide the ride but typically offer a compassionate connection that helps neighbors in need feel seen and supported. In turn, drivers report how fulfilling it is for them to give back to their community in this way.

“Volunteer driving has become one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done. I just wish more folks knew how big a difference one ride can make,” said LaDonna, a volunteer driver in Polk County.

The state funding will help sustain these efforts by supporting program staff, administration expenses, and providing mileage reimbursements to volunteer drivers. This foundational support complements additional resources from the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS), private foundations, and community donations.

Even with this investment, the need for rides continues to exceed available resources. New Growth Transit and its partners are committed to being good stewards by implementing ride rationing strategies to prioritize the most critical trips, while also collecting data and stories that highlight the ongoing unmet need.

“The need is vast and growing,” said Ast. “But what we’ve built is working. A volunteer driver network is not only cost-effective but uniquely suited to serve the long distances and dispersed populations of rural Missouri. These rides aren’t just convenient — they are life-changing.”

New Growth Transit remains committed to serving as a statewide leader in rural mobility,expanding its impact through collaboration, innovation, and continued advocacy.