Rural Alternative for Transportation Raft

The Rural Alternative for Transportation supports independence, dignity, and freedom to seniors and adults with disabilities by providing transportation to medical appointments, social engagements, education, and employment. In 2013 the Town of Berthoud trustees limited public transit services to the town limits, effectively isolating the rural senior population and adults with disabilities. Essentially, the Town of Berthoud reduced its service area from 102 square miles to just 13 square miles.  The decision left rural residents figuratively, and literally, stranded. RAFT was borne out of the Berthoud senior club’s conviction that rural senior residents could maintain independence in their own homes if they could get to where they needed to go. 

A decade later, RAFT’s ridership has grown over 300%. Since implementing a new software system in 2023 for scheduling and enrolling volunteers and drivers, RAFT saw a 38% increase in total trips given within 1 year. Significantly, the sole public transportation option for Berthoud residents continues to shrink its services, leaving vulnerable persons with no other way to access medical care outside of city limits.

RAFT continues to rely on volunteer drivers and dispatchers who go above and beyond to meet the needs of our clients. In 2023, RAFT logged over 58,000 miles – that’s 2 1/3 times around the world! Here’s what some of our riders have had to say:

“We would not be able to stay in our home without this service. Thank you so much!”

“Thank God for RAFT! My life would be so dismal without them! Very caring individuals who contribute their time to helping others. PS. My children also appreciate the independence I have gained from this program.”

“Without RAFT I would not have a life.”

“Everyone I have dealt with is polite, friendly, and nice – I really don’t know how I would have gotten to Dr. appointments without them. They (and you) are wonderful!”

“Normally I can take care of myself. Your services were a God send when I needed transportation.”