Anoka County Celebrates Volunteer Drivers at Medlink Luncheon

Anoka County honored its dedicated volunteers at the Medlink Transportation Program during a luncheon held on September 30, 2024. This event highlighted the crucial role that volunteer drivers play in providing transportation to residents for essential medical appointments, particularly for those with limited mobility.

The luncheon served as a platform to express appreciation for the volunteers’ unwavering commitment. According to information from Anoka County’s official website, from September 1, 2023, to August 31, 2024, these volunteers collectively traveled an impressive 124,662 miles on 5,155 trips, showcasing the significant impact of their efforts. The volunteers dedicated 6,745 hours of service, which is equivalent to over 248 days of continuous support.

Mike Gamache, chair of the Anoka County Board of Commissioners, emphasized the value of the Medlink program, stating, “My fellow commissioners and I thoroughly enjoy coming to the Medlink luncheon every fall and seeing the dozens of drivers who make this program possible. This service is integral in our county, as many residents need reliable transportation to and from appointments, and the drivers oftentimes develop relationships that go beyond the simple act of transportation.”

The event not only recognized the volunteers but also celebrated their long-term dedication. Several drivers were acknowledged for their commitment to the Medlink Transportation Program, with some achieving milestones of 5 to 10 years of service. Notable among them were Cindy Murawski and Jerry Barber, whose efforts embody the spirit of community service in Anoka County.

Recognition was also given to the top-performing drivers of the past year. Bill Merry led the roster with an impressive 14,663 miles, 657 hours, and 498 trips. Close behind was John Watson, who contributed 7,437 miles and 311 hours over 232 trips. Other commendable mentions included Dean Wagner, as well as Don Manion and Denny Anderson for their significant contributions.

The luncheon proved to be a vital gathering of gratitude and recognition, reinforcing the importance of volunteerism in fostering a supportive community. As Anoka County continues to rely on the Medlink Transportation Program, the dedication of its volunteers remains a cornerstone of its success.