Based in Gem Lake, Newtrax, Inc., was formed in 2011 through a collaboration between Merrick, Inc., and PAI, Inc., two non-profit organizations that provide vocational and life enrichment opportunities to over 500 adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Newtrax, an independent non-profit organization, consolidates “back office” functions necessary to support its members by providing client transportation, information technology, financial analysis, fleet maintenance, and facility maintenance services. It is governed by a volunteer board, with representatives of the founding organizations alternating board leadership positions.

Executive Director, Mike Greenbaum noted, “Because of the economy of scale, member organizations have realized considerable cost savings that result in more of each non-profit’s limited resources directly benefiting the clients served by their programs.”

Recognizing a transportation need in the community, and an opportunity for its buses to be utilized beyond the regular shared Merrick and PAI client routes, Newtrax, has strategically grown to include transportation for group outings and day trip “loops” for seniors in the northeastern Twin Cities. These routes provide riders an opportunity to engage in the local community, take care of errands, meet friends for lunch, or visit the White Bear Senior Center. In addition to the weekly loops currently operating in White Bear Lake/Vadnais Heights/Mahtomedi, Forest Lake area, and Roseville area, Newtrax regularly transports seniors to sporting events, concerts, community picnics and dinners, boat cruises, and volunteer opportunities at schools. With the buses available on weekends, and after regular business hours, the company has also partnered with churches, businesses, assisted living facilities, and individuals for visits to vineyards, museums, the state capitol, and holiday light tours.

As a result of this recent growth and expansion of services, Newtrax is hiring multiple positions: a human resources generalist to provide HR services for the company, a financial analyst to lead the financial analysis support provided to the member organizations, and full- and part-time drivers. Visit www.newtrax.org for more information about these positions, or to explore how Newtrax can meet the transportation needs of your business, faith community, or your own activities.