(Fairmont, MN)--CREST, a Fairmont nonprofit that provides help for community members aging in place, has seen the demand for its non-emergency medical transport services double since the beginning of 2026.

In 2025, its transportation services to Mayo Clinic campuses in Fairmont, Mankato and Rochester and Sanford Health in Sioux Falls averaged around 30 to 40 calls a month.

In 2026, that average has increased to a range of around 70 to 80 calls.

CREST Executive Director Rob Stauter credits that increase to the closure MN Para Transit in Truman last summer.

To help meet that demand with only 60 volunteers with varying degrees of availability, Stauter has been putting out a call to the community for help. To volunteer, someone only needs free time, a car and a driver’s license.

Stauter says all gas is covered by the non-profit’s gas card.

Those interested in volunteering to help can do so by calling 507-235-3833 or emailing crest@crestvolunteers.org.