When Katherine Palm was referred to Community Transportation Network, she was facing significant mobility challenges after an injury left her with an acquired disability. With no family nearby and only a few friends to rely on, getting around had become a major barrier to accessing medical care and her community overall.

After hearing about our services, Katherine reached out to learn more. When she discovered we offer wheelchair-accessible transportation, she asked a simple but important question: “Do you have wheelchairs too?” Due to insurance difficulties, she was struggling to get a suitable wheelchair. While we don’t provide medical equipment, we were able to connect her with Turnstone, who helped her secure a temporary wheelchair until hers arrived.

With reliable transportation to physical therapy, she made a huge breakthrough—

Lutheran Drivers

Did you know? In addition to serving low-income seniors and people with disabilities in Allen County, CTN partners with Lutheran Health Network to provide safe, reliable transportation for patients discharged from the hospital. Some travel locally, while others go as far as northwest Indiana!

We’re proud to extend our services to these riders and grateful for the dedication of Eric, JP, and Becca, who make this partnership possible. And rest assured—this program is fully funded separately, so donor dollars remain focused on our core mission.

Employee Milestones

Our team is the heart of everything we do. Their dedication and passion ensure that our riders get where they need to go safely and reliably every day. This month, we’re celebrating our incredible employees who have reached milestone anniversaries with CTN!

We are fortunate to have dedicated board members who are passionate about helping our community stay connected. One of those leaders is Shannon DisPennett, a Regional HR Manager at BrightSpring Health Services.

For Shannon, joining CTN’s Board in July 2017 felt like a natural fit. Working in human services, her mission has always been to help people reach their highest level of independence and live their best life. When she learned about CTN’s work easing the burden of transportation, she knew she wanted to be part of the solution.

"CTN plays a vital role by providing essential transportation services to residents who might otherwise lack access. These rides enable people to reach medical care, work, and community programs—contributing to healthier lives and a more connected community," she said.

One of Shannon’s most impactful moments with CTN was during a ride-along with a CTN driver. She met multiple riders who shared how much these rides meant to them—giving them the opportunity to leave their homes, socialize, and feel part of the community.

"One rider told me that at her age, people tend to forget about them, but CTN doesn’t let that happen. The drivers truly care, and the connections they build with riders are inspiring," she reflected.

Shannon’s involvement with CTN has influenced her both personally and professionally. Seeing firsthand the challenges that many community members face has deepened her sense of compassion and purpose. It has also connected her with like-minded professionals who value service, leadership, and community impact.

"CTN has helped me develop leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills that I carry into my professional career. But more than that, it has shown me the power of giving back and inspired me to encourage others to do the same," she said.

Fun Fact: If Shannon could have any car, she’d pick a 1960 Ford F100 Truck!

In an effort to serve more riders, CTN has implemented a new cancellation policy, effective February 1, 2025. 

Thank you for your understanding as we work to serve more each day!

We know that mobility equals independence. For nearly two decades, our partnership with Turnstone Center has been instrumental in ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the resources, programs, and services they need to thrive.

Since 2006, when CTN took over Turnstone’s transportation services, we’ve worked together to create a centralized system that increases efficiency, expands access, and reduces costs for riders. Our accessible fleet is designed to meet the diverse needs of Turnstone’s clients—whether they use power wheelchairs, have low vision, or need extra assistance to travel safely.

CTN’s role in empowering Turnstone clients includes:

-Providing reliable rides to therapy sessions, fitness programs, adult day services, and adaptive sports at the Plassman Athletic Center

-Ensuring access to jobs, education, medical appointments, and social events beyond Turnstone’s walls

-Offering safe, comfortable transportation with wheelchair lifts, securement systems, and trained drivers who understand passengers’ unique needs

But the impact of our partnership goes beyond transportation. It’s about breaking down barriers, fostering independence, and creating an inclusive community. At Turnstone, clients gain strength, confidence, and connection—but access is the key to making those opportunities possible. An inclusive community doesn’t just say, “You belong here.” It ensures that you can get there.

Thank you, Turnstone, for your continued partnership and for all you do to empower individuals with disabilities.