Balancing Motherhood, Grad School, and Volunteer Driving
Life is busy for Jessica Adamson from Cedar County. As a mother of young children and a graduate student pursuing her master’s in teaching, her days are full of lessons, parenting, and study sessions. Yet, in the midst of it all, she makes time for something that brings her joy—volunteering as a driver for New Growth Transit.
Jessica began her journey as a volunteer driver in December of last year. Inspired by a retired teacher who shared his own experience driving for the program, she decided to check it out. At the time, she wasn’t working, and the flexibility of the opportunity intrigued her. “I thought it’d be something fun to do,” she recalls. And it turns out, she was right.
More Than a Ride—A Connection
For Jessica, the experience has been more than just a way to pass the time. She enjoys the peacefulness of long drives—especially trips to places like Springfield and Bolivar. But it’s the people she meets along the way that make the experience truly special.
“All of my riders have been excellent,” she says. “Getting to know them and talking makes the rides go by quickly.”
Many of her passengers are in a difficult position—whether they don’t have a reliable vehicle for long trips or simply aren’t comfortable driving out of town. A ride with New Growth Transit isn’t just about transportation—it’s about independence, peace of mind, and connection.
“One of the things that touched my heart was when a rider told me how grateful they were for the opportunity to get where they needed to go,” Jessica shares. “It made me realize how much of a difference these rides make.”
Finding Time to Give Back
With everything on her plate—raising kids and completing her master's degree through online courses—one might wonder how she finds time to volunteer. But Jessica says the flexibility of being a driver is exactly what makes it possible. She can set her own schedule, taking on rides when it works for her, while still focusing on school and her family.
And while helping others is the heart of the experience, the mileage reimbursements also provide an extra layer of support, helping to cover fuel costs and contribute to her budget while she works toward her teaching degree.
Why Others Should Give It a Try
When asked what she’d say to someone considering becoming a volunteer driver, Jessica doesn’t hesitate.
“It’s about more than just driving. You get to meet new people, make new friends, and give someone an opportunity they wouldn’t have otherwise—whether it’s getting to a doctor’s appointment or to work.”
Her advice? If you enjoy driving and connecting with people, it’s a rewarding way to give back to your community.
Interested in making a difference like Jessica?
Volunteer drivers set their own schedules, receive mileage reimbursement, and help their neighbors access essential services.
🚗 Apply to be a driver: 417-283-7991 or visit newgrowthtransit.org
💙 Can’t be a driver? Donate to support reimbursements for those who generously give their time.
Together, we’re strengthening rural communities and helping neighbors in need—one mile at a time.