Rides not only ease the challenges of rural life but also fuel local growth. Stories like Anna’s, a single mother and waitress, and Brent’s, who cannot drive due to a developmental disability, highlight how New Growth Transit helps them get to work. Volunteer drivers make a lasting impact on rural communities, one ride and one individual at a time.

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.

From building a high tunnel to touring different structures and learning innovative techniques from experts like Curtis Millsap and Jason Hirtz, the day was packed with practical knowledge, inspiring conversations, and a sense of true community.

Our volunteer drivers' incredible milestone of one million miles of free rides in 2024 has been celebrated across multiple platforms, including a feature on KSHB Channel 41 News, an online story at KCTV 5, and local coverage in Bolivar’s Herald-Free Press. This recognition highlights the transformative impact of rural transportation and the dedication of the volunteers who make it possible.

Building on insights from the recent report, Solving Missouri's Child Care Puzzle, this webinar series will advance the discussion and explore actionable shared service solutions for child care in Missouri.

New Growth Transit celebrates a remarkable milestone: over 1 million miles of free rides provided to rural Missourians in 2024—equivalent to circling the globe 40 times. This achievement underscores the vital role of our volunteer drivers in connecting residents to essential services.

The Heartland Regional Food Business Center received an incredible 479 applications for the first round of our Business Builder grant, aimed at helping small and midsize food and farm businesses expand and thrive. This strong response highlights the demand for resources that support local food entrepreneurs across our five-state region!

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.

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.

With nearly half of Missouri’s young children living in "child care deserts," a new report from the New Growth Women’s Business Center and University of Missouri Extension, proposes a business-oriented solution: shared services or central office support for small and home-based child care providers.

Discover how local farmers are adapting to climate change with sustainable practices that are building resilience and protecting the future of our food systems!

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.