Care2Ride: An Assessment of Transportation Resources for Persons in Recovery in Northeast TN

Abstract

The First Tennessee Development District’s (FTDD) Caring Workplaces Program began in 2021, with the primary goal of eliminating employment barriers for persons impacted by substance use disorder (SUD) or justice involvement. As this project progressed, the team became increasingly aware of how circumstances resulting from SUD, which may include justice system involvement, can create additional challenges to accessing transportation necessary not only for employment but also for legal appointments, healthcare, and recovery services. In 2023, the Caring Workplaces initiative received funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to conduct the Care2Ride planning process. The goal of this planning project was to assess the transportation needs of individuals in recovery and/or with justice system involvement and explore models of transportation that meet these needs. This project utilized both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods to illicit facilitators and barriers to transpiration for persons in recovery in NE TN. Throughout this process I learned the value of having a variety of perspectives at the table when considering ways to address complex solutions. Ultimately this project increased stakeholder and community awareness of the issue and brought community members from across multiple sectors to propose solutions.

Start Time

16-4-2025 10:00 AM

End Time

16-4-2025 11:00 AM

Room Number

210

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Presentation Subtype

Community Engaged Showcase

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Apr 16th, 10:00 AM Apr 16th, 11:00 AM

Care2Ride: An Assessment of Transportation Resources for Persons in Recovery in Northeast TN

210

The First Tennessee Development District’s (FTDD) Caring Workplaces Program began in 2021, with the primary goal of eliminating employment barriers for persons impacted by substance use disorder (SUD) or justice involvement. As this project progressed, the team became increasingly aware of how circumstances resulting from SUD, which may include justice system involvement, can create additional challenges to accessing transportation necessary not only for employment but also for legal appointments, healthcare, and recovery services. In 2023, the Caring Workplaces initiative received funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to conduct the Care2Ride planning process. The goal of this planning project was to assess the transportation needs of individuals in recovery and/or with justice system involvement and explore models of transportation that meet these needs. This project utilized both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods to illicit facilitators and barriers to transpiration for persons in recovery in NE TN. Throughout this process I learned the value of having a variety of perspectives at the table when considering ways to address complex solutions. Ultimately this project increased stakeholder and community awareness of the issue and brought community members from across multiple sectors to propose solutions.