Our Impact: Transforming Lives, One Ride at a Time
Since our founding in 1984, The Valley Bus Society has been more than just a transportation service—we’ve been a lifeline for the Drumheller Valley. For over four decades, we’ve provided low-cost, accessible rides to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and community members in need, ensuring they stay connected to the people and places that matter most. Our impact is measured not just in miles traveled, but in the stories, smiles, and independence we’ve helped create. Here’s how we’ve made a difference and continue to shape our community.
By the Numbers
- 40+ Years of Service: From a single handibus in 1984 to a trusted non-profit today.
- 1,200+ Monthly Passengers: At our peak, we served over 1,200 riders each month, a testament to our reach.
- 17+ Communities Connected: From Drumheller to Rosedale, Carbon to East Coulee, we bridge the valley.
- Thousands of Trips: Countless errands, medical visits, and outings made possible through our buses.
These numbers tell a story of reliability and care. Even as ridership dipped to under 600 monthly by 2019 due to rising costs and changing needs, we adapted by partnering with Bubba T’s Bus Tours & Shuttle Service in 2023, ensuring our services remain strong and sustainable.
Economic and Social Benefits
- Healthcare Access: By offering medical transport, we reduce missed appointments, supporting health outcomes and easing strain on families.
- Social Inclusion: Outings and daily rides combat loneliness, especially for seniors, fostering mental well-being.
- Local Economy: Affordable transport helps riders spend on local businesses, from groceries to café visits, boosting Drumheller’s vitality.
Environmental Footprint
While our fleet isn’t yet electric, our group transport reduces individual car trips, cutting emissions in a small but meaningful way. Looking ahead, we dream of eco-friendly buses—your support could make that a reality.
Adapting to Challenges
When ridership fell and costs rose, we didn’t give up. Our 2023 partnership with Bubba T’s allowed us to focus on fundraising while maintaining service quality. This resilience reflects our commitment to the valley, ensuring we’re here for the long haul.
Looking Forward
Our impact grows with every ride, but there’s more to do. We aim to:
- Restore peak ridership levels through outreach.
- Expand evening and weekend services for flexibility.
- Upgrade our fleet for greater accessibility and sustainability.
With community backing, these goals will amplify our reach and deepen our legacy.