Margaret Strehler is behind the wheel at Porter County Aging and Community Services joining the transportation team as a new bus driver.
The Hebron resident has worked in the home health arena and as a bus driver for Boone Grove schools and First Student Inc. She is relishing her new role at PCACS.
“I enjoy working with the elderly and hearing stories from their past. I like the fact that I can help them keep a little independence in their lives, helping them get out of their house and visiting others,” she said. “I want to make sure that the clients that ride my bus get to their appointments and back home safely. Some of our clients have no family and I want them to know that I care about them. If I can help them I will do my best.”
Strehler recognizes the importance of the service to the riders and their families.
“Seniors need to get out so they are not stuck at home just sitting there. They need to see doctors whenever they need to and some family members can't take off work to take them,” she said. “So if the bus can help then that’s what they need. This bus service is important to these clients and their families.”
PCACS Executive Director Bruce Lindner said the addition of Strehler helps the agency maintain the level of service needed by community members.
“Keeping our buses on the roads running consistently is so important to our riders who rely on this much-needed service,” he said. “We welcome Margaret to our team as we continue to provide our transportation program to the community.”
In her free time, Strehler enjoys being outdoors and spending time with her husband, Jim.
“I come from a family of 13 and I enjoy visiting with my mom whenever I can. My husband of 23 1/2 years and I like to go camping as much as we can. We love being outdoors, kicking the ball around for our Border Collie and taking walks together and just being happy,” she said. “I try not to let things bother me because life is just too short.”
PCACS’ transportation program is a county-wide door-to-door service. To schedule a ride, contact the transportation office at 464-9736.
PCACS’ mission is to extend a helping hand to seniors, those with disabilities and low-income residents by providing services to improve their quality of life, including transportation, nutrition programs, energy assistance and activity centers.
For more information, visit www.portercountyacs.org.
