Blog Category

Rural Living

Helping James and JoAnn Stay Independent

Helping James and JoAnn Stay Independent

February 4, 2025
They’ve called Benton County, MO home since 1990. James, a retired truck driver and volunteer firefighter with over 60 years of service, is a Korean War veteran. At 92, he’s still committed to his community, working the phones and radio at the local fire department but needs the help of New Growth Transit to reach his frequent medical appointments.
Kate’s Road to Impact

Kate’s Road to Impact

January 30, 2025
Kate, a volunteer driver, shares touching stories of how reliable transportation changes lives in rural communities. From cancer patients to working parents, her experiences show how a simple ride can bring independence, relief, and connection.
Lake Retired Volunteer Driver

Lake Retired Volunteer Driver

January 8, 2025
Michelle felt a little isolated after retiring and moving with her husband from the city to a rural area near Truman Lake in Benton County. Looking for a way to stay active and connected in her new community, becoming a volunteer driver for New Growth Transit turned out to be the perfect fit.
Love Across the Miles: How New Growth Transit Brings Betty and Stanley Together

Love Across the Miles: How New Growth Transit Brings Betty and Stanley Together

January 7, 2025
Betty, 85, relies on New Growth Transit to visit her husband, a Korean War veteran, at the Veterans Home in Warrensburg each week. With the help of her sister Phyllis and a caring volunteer driver, these weekly trips are not only a lifeline for Betty and Stanley but also a testament to the power of community.
A Ride to Work: Supporting Independence

A Ride to Work: Supporting Independence

December 9, 2024
Meet Dustin, a 24-year-old thriving at his job at Walmart, thanks to the reliable support of New Growth Transit. His story highlights how access to dependable transportation fosters independence, eases family burdens, and creates opportunities for individuals in rural communities.
One Person, One Ride, a Downpour of Impact

One Person, One Ride, a Downpour of Impact

November 11, 2024
Veterans in rural areas often face barriers to the care they need, especially when transportation is scarce. One of our staff shares the story of Jim, a Vietnam veteran from Cedar County, and the friendship that helped him access critical medical care and the reminder that one act of kindness can break the isolation many veterans feel. Read how a ride can change a veteran’s life.
A Small-Town Transportation Solution

A Small-Town Transportation Solution

November 5, 2024
In the small town of Butler in Bates County Missouri, an extraordinary volunteer-run “taxi” service, known as BACO, is making a big impact on local mobility. Here’s a closer look at how this local organization and New Growth Transit complement each other.
New Generator Powers a Vision of Community Resilience

New Generator Powers a Vision of Community Resilience

October 15, 2024
The Liston Center, a community hub in El Dorado Springs and home to New Growth offices, has installed a generator to keep essential services running during power outages. Funded by a USDA grant and a trivia night fundraiser, future events will continue to support the plan to build a community-serving commercial kitchen.
Touching Story from our Team

Touching Story from our Team

October 7, 2024
One of our staff members who doesn't typically take calls from riders received a touching request that really highlighted why we do what we do at New Growth Transit.
Shared Love for Helping Others

Shared Love for Helping Others

October 6, 2024
Meet Don and Lori, a husband and wife from Cedar County who have found a new passion in their retirement: volunteering as drivers for New Growth Transit.
Lifeline for Legally Blind Rural Residents

Lifeline for Legally Blind Rural Residents

August 27, 2024
This legally blind resident of Polk County is grateful to have New Growth Transit so he and others like him have a safe option to help them stay connected with the community.
Trivia Night Success at Liston Center

Trivia Night Success at Liston Center

July 2, 2024
Trivia Night at the Liston Center on June 28, themed "Summer Lovin'," saw 12 enthusiastic teams competing in a festive 50s atmosphere, raising over $3,000 for the kitchen renovation.