Kate’s Road to Impact
For Kate Daffron, a volunteer driver from Benton County, driving isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the people she meets along the way. As a volunteer driver for New Growth Transit, Kate provides more than just transportation; she offers kindness, comfort, and a reliable connection to essential services.
Through her experiences, she's gathered touching stories of the riders she has helped—stories that illustrate the deep need for reliable transportation in rural communities.
“I’ve always loved to drive,” Kate shares, reminiscing about once dreaming of becoming an over-the-road truck driver. “But even more than that, I love people. Every ride is a chance to brighten someone’s day.”
More Than Just a Ride. It's Compassion
As a volunteer driver for New Growth Transit, Kate is providing so much more than just a car ride to a destination.
“I remember picking up a young man with autism who rarely spoke,” Kate recalls. “Each time, I’d ask how his day was, even though he never answered. Then one day, he smiled and said, ‘It was a good day.’ That moment meant everything.”
The Logistics of Compassion
Another time Kate drove a man about 45 minutes to his chemotherapy appointment, only for him to unexpectedly learn that his return ride with another transportation company was to take three hours and multiple stops. The long and exhausting journey home wasn’t just going to be physically draining—it filled him with anxiety about leaving his wife, who was unable to walk, alone for so long. Before leaving that morning, he made sure she had everything she needed within reach, yet he still worried she might try to move and fall. The delay added to his distress. Fortunately, a kind-hearted clinic worker stepped in and gave him a ride home, but later learning of his experience reinforced Kate’s belief that New Growth Transit is different—it’s personal, compassionate, and reliable, ensuring no one has to endure such stress during already difficult times.
Small Stops are Big
Because New Growth Transit allows for stops that are along the way, small accommodations can make a world of difference. Kate recalls one woman, returning home from her job as an in-home caregiver, who hesitantly asked if she could stop at the Dollar Store for groceries because she had no food at home. Another rider, fresh from a doctor's visit, needed to pick up crucial medication but would have had to wait days for another scheduled ride with other services. These moments highlight the flexibility and compassion of New Growth Transit—helping people with not just transportation, but with the daily essentials that allow them to live with dignity and independence.
Getting to Work
Kate has also seen how something as simple as a ride can mean the difference between stability and hardship. One of her passengers, a hardworking father who works second shift, depended on these rides to keep his job and support his children. With his car broken down and no way to afford repairs, he was on the verge of losing his only source of income. New Growth Transit became his saving grace, ensuring he could continue working and providing for his family.
Why Volunteer Driving Matters
Kate encourages others to get involved.“It’s the most amazing way I can think of to give back to the community,” she says. “You’re not just providing a ride; you’re making someone’s life a little easier, a little brighter.”
Volunteering is just as rewarding for the drivers. Kate thinks that when you shift the focus off yourself, it makes you feel better. She’s seen first hand how serving others can lift her spirits, especially on days that feel isolating.
And the best part? Volunteer drivers aren’t alone. They’re supported by a local team that understands the riders, rural roads, weather challenges, and the importance of flexibility. Plus, New Growth Transit reimburses mileage, ensuring that volunteers aren’t paying out of pocket to help their neighbors.
The schedule flexibility of volunteering in this way has also given her the time to complete her bachelor’s degree in special and elementary education, and she’s pursuing her master’s now as well.
Join the Movement
Kate’s story is a testament to how one person can make a meaningful impact—one mile at a time. Whether you love driving, enjoy meeting new people, or simply want to make a difference in your community, becoming a volunteer driver with New Growth Transit is an opportunity to do something truly rewarding.
📞 Apply today: Call 417-283-7991 or visit newgrowthtransit.org
💙 Can’t drive? Donate to support reimbursements for those who give their time. bit.ly/NewGrowthTransitDonate