Due to the rural nature of the area and the lack of accessible public transportation, residents of Deer River face significant isolation and accessibility challenges. These barriers impact not only essential medical visits and necessary errands but also opportunities for community engagement and activities that enhance quality of life. For residents requiring mobility assistance, such as walkers or wheelchairs, these challenges are further compounded. Existing transportation options are often limited or fully utilized, making the need for sustainable solutions urgent.
Forward Health Foundation has been selected as one of only four organizations in the United States (and Guam) to receive a prestigious grant from the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA). This grant allows the Foundation to participate in the Accessible Transportation Resource Center (ATRC) Community of Practice (CoP) and address critical transportation barriers affecting the Deer River region and surrounding rural communities.
Forward Health Foundation’s proposal was recognized for its unique approach to tackling these challenges. According to the award letter, the Foundation was chosen “based in part upon the unique nature of the accessibility challenge [we] will be addressing and [our] team’s proposed strategy.”
The CoP framework fosters collaboration among residents with lived experiences, community professionals, and transportation agencies. Currently, 25 individuals, organizations, and agencies are actively engaged in this initiative, which began in October. The goal is to create innovative and long-term solutions to bridge the gaps in transportation services throughout the Deer River region.
“We understand that solving these transportation issues is incredibly complex involving, at minimum, funding and workforce deficits, and will take time and the collective effort of our community and our partners,” said April Jesperson, Executive Director. “We see our main role as connecting our community partners and their resources while facilitating discussions that build upon existing options and working to expand services in our region. We’re committed to working with all stakeholders to improve accessibility and ensure a better quality of life for our residents, one success at a time.”
Community and partner engagement is critical to the success of this initiative. Forward Health Foundation welcomes input from residents, organizations, and anyone invested in improving transportation options for the Deer River area.
For more information about this initiative or to provide feedback, please contact the Forward Health Foundation at 218-246-4212.
