Volunteer Driver Honored with Statewide Service Award
EL DORADO
SPRINGS, Mo. (April 21, 2026) — Helen
Crowder of Deepwater, Mo., a volunteer driver with New Growth Transit, was
honored at the Missouri State Capitol as a recipient of a Show Me
Service Award, recognizing outstanding volunteer service across the state.
Crowder
received the award during a ceremony held in the Capitol Rotunda on
April 21, where honorees from across Missouri were recognized for their
contributions to strengthening communities and improving quality of life.
In rural
Missouri, where long distances and limited transportation options can create
barriers for those unable to drive themselves, volunteer drivers play a key
role in connecting residents to medical care and daily needs. With medical
trips often ranging from 24 to 72 miles one way, Crowder approaches that role
with care and connection.
“I just
let the people talk. Let them tell me their stories,” Crowder said.
“A lot of my riders live alone and don’t have anyone to talk to. Or
they might feel nervous on the way to a medical appointment. The ride is an
opportunity to help them feel calmer before they get there.”
New Growth
Transit coordinates rides through a network of volunteer drivers who use their
own vehicles to provide on-demand transportation. Drivers set their own
schedules, receive staff support, and are reimbursed for mileage to cover their
costs. The program helps fill a critical gap in rural areas, where public
transportation is limited, often requires long travel times and inflexible
schedules, or is simply unavailable, especially for medical
appointments in neighboring metro areas.
The New
Growth Transit team said the recognition reflects both Crowder’s dedication and
the vital role volunteer drivers play for residents in rural Missouri.
“Helen
represents the very best of what this program is about,” said New Growth
Transit Chief Mobility Officer Kelly Ast. “We’re proud she can take something
that seems small, like giving a ride, and make a difference for people in her
community in a big way.”
Crowder’s
service highlights the impact volunteer drivers have in rural communities. Her
recognition at the Capitol is a significant honor, but for the people she
serves every day, she has been making a difference all along.
About New Growth Transit
New Growth Transit coordinates volunteer drivers
across 11 rural counties in west central Missouri, providing transportation for
medical appointments and, when funding is available, for employment, groceries,
and other essential needs. Riders may call at least 48 hours in
advance to request a ride. Those interested in requesting a
ride, volunteering, or becoming a sponsor may call 417-283-7991 or
visit newgrowthtransit.org.
