ABOUT US: OVERVIEW

Handi-Wheels Transportation is a dial-a-ride, demand/response, door-to-door transit service for individuals that are disabled, elderly, and/or low-income. We help people maintain their self-sufficiency and help them live healthy lives. Handi-Wheels empowers a large number of individuals who cannot drive for themselves to take care of their health needs with the additional ability to access shopping, recreation, and worship services while remaining in their own homes where they are most comfortable.

Handi-Wheels Transportation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in the United States under EIN: 45-0348910. It began operation in 1975 and was the first paratransit agency in the Fargo and West Fargo communities. Today, the fleet consists of 4 wheelchair accessible vehicles providing service to residents within the city limits of Fargo and West Fargo.

MISSION STATEMENT

To provide a safe, reliable means of accessible and affordable transportation service to individuals who have a disability, are elderly or live below the poverty line. 

VALUES STATEMENT

Handi-Wheels embraces and is fully committed to the observances of human and disability rights. As such, Handi-Wheels is dedicated to the rights of its patrons to a transportation service of the highest quality possible.

HISTORY

Handi-Wheels Transportation began operation in 1975. Recognizing a need for accessible transportation options, members of the Red River Valley Handicaps Club and residents of New Horizons Manor, collected and redeemed Betty Crocker coupons over an 18 month period so they could purchase a wheelchair accessible van.

The two groups collected over 1,700,000 Betty Crocker coupons resulting in a check from General Mills for $8,500 to be used to purchase the van. Prior to that time, the only method of transportation for individuals using wheelchairs was an ambulance. Thus, Handi-Wheels was the first paratransit service in the community.

Today, the fleet consists of 4 wheelchair accessible vehicles providing service to residents within the city limits of Fargo and West Fargo.

OUR TEAM

Handi-Wheels is dedicated to the rights of its patrons to a transportation service of the highest quality possible. If you have a desire to impact others and feel good about your contribution, please consider volunteering with us.

STAFF

• Roger Kjos, Executive Director
• Lorissa Lenertz, Business Manager
• Dorothy Olson, Office Manager
• Jeannie Barbot, Volunteer Office Assistant
• DeAnn Brothers, Volunteer Dispatcher
• Adam Kluth, Scheduler
• Kate Lewandowski, Bookkeeper
  

DRIVERS

• Ron Kopperdahl
• Mike Kraft
• Ross Leaf

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Handi-Wheels’ Board of Directors is a diverse governing board of highly qualified professionals representing a wide range of experience and backgrounds. They offer governance, guidance, accountability, and support to help Handi-Wheels achieve our mission. The Board members selflessly volunteer their time, talent, and treasure because they understand just how important having accessible transportation is to help people remain self-sufficient and well in the community.