We’re actively seeking ways to make transportation easier for everyone.
United Community Action Partnership is committed to helping people find the transportation they need in any way we can. We do this in a variety of ways through our innovative Southwest Mobility Management Initiative (SMMI). Many of these efforts need volunteers like you in order to be successful.
Community Connection
The Community Connection exists to connect even more people to their communities. When traditional transportation options are not the answer, Community Connection finds another option.
Volunteer Drivers
Volunteer drivers have been an absolutely crucial part of rural transportation for decades. The majority of transportation needs to out-of-area locations simply cannot be met without them. Volunteer Drivers use their own vehicle, and most are eligible to receive a mileage reimbursement tax free. Learn more about this awesome opportunity!
Volunteer Van Service
The Community Connection van will provide rides to older adults and people with disabilities in Lincoln County. Rides will be provided in a wheelchair accessible minivan driven by volunteers, and fares will be determined on a sliding fee scale to keep it affordable for everyone. Rides are set to begin in 2019. Please contact us if you would like to volunteer for this program. (CDL is not required)
Travel Training and Ride Scheduling Assistance
Sometimes, people don’t use the transportation options that are available because they don’t understand how to schedule or they are nervous about traveling. Through one-on-one travel training and scheduling assistance, we desire to help people understand what to expect while traveling, and give them the confidence to do it on their own.
Often, the biggest barrier to receiving transportation is getting it scheduled. So, we’ll even sit side-by-side with people and help them through the scheduling process. Contact us by email if you need help or call 507-537-1416. Ask for Terri D. or Shelly P.
Rider Companion Program
The rider companion program is designed to help people stay independent for as long as possible. Volunteer rider companions provide assistance to people during transportation or at their destinations so they can be active in their communities, even if minor limitations mean they cannot do it alone. Rider companions may be requested for things like:
- Providing companionship during transport to ease anxiety
- Ensuring the person gets from the vehicle to an appointment successfully
- Helping with light shopping
We are currently looking for volunteers to become rider companions in all of our counties. Please let us know if you are interested in helping!
Seeking Solutions
Not every transportation need is simple. When people aren’t sure where to find the transportation they need, we are here. Sometimes, that means connecting someone to a transportation provider they didn’t know about. Sometimes, it’s about connecting them to transportation funding. Sometimes, it takes a little out-of-the-box thinking. Whatever the problem, we will try to find a solution. Contact us today!
You Can Help
Do you have an idea that will help more people get more of the transportation they need? Send it to us!
Also, please consider helping with the current program needs:
- Be a part of the Southwest Minnesota Regional Ride Council
- Register to be a volunteer driver
- Volunteer as a rider companion
- Register to drive the Community Connection van
