Nicole Voight is facing a nearly impossible math problem in her first year as Interim Executive Director of Door-Tran, but finding a way to make it work. Most volunteers are older or otherwise part of a demographic that is at high risk from COVID-19. Only a quarter of its usual roster of volunteers is currently helping out. In July, those ten drivers had nearly as many passengers as 2019, ninety-two versus 94. Protocols require a thorough cleaning of each vehicle after a rider has been dropped off at their destination, and passengers cannot share a trip. Voight says Door-Tran has been able to pull it all off without extending its hours, but help would be greatly appreciated. That is especially true in northern Door County.

Drivers are reimbursed 50 cents per mile, making it essential for the organization’s bottom line to be able to maximize efficiency and find volunteers who live in proximity to the service’s riders. If someone needs help going from Washington Island to Green Bay for a medical appointment, that’s $80 round trip. If Door-Tran is forced to use a Sturgeon Bay driver, add in another $40 just for picking up and dropping off. Voight says southern door has better coverage than the northern end of the county. All riders are asked to contact Door-Tran 48 hours beforehand.