Joe Porter serves as the program coordinator for Mobility Management at Knox Public Health.
In this role, Porter aims to connect Knox County residents with essential transportation resources.
While the term "Mobility Management" may be unfamiliar to many, Porter, one of 44 mobility managers statewide, is working to change that by educating the public on its importance and scope.
“For the most part, no one knows what Mobility Management is. That’s something we’re hoping to educate folks about,” Porter told the Mount Vernon News.
Porter, who previously spent 19 years as Fire Chief at Centerburg’s Central Ohio Joint Fire District took over the role in October 2023 after working in the county’s transit system since 2019.
“The (Mobility Management) program is primarily funded through the Federal Transit Administration, and the main focus is to connect seniors, disabled individuals, and low-income people with transportation resources," Porter said.
Many Knox County residents don’t realize that there are various transportation options available to them.
Despite the challenges, Porter is determined to make a difference.
“A lot of folks struggle to get to medical appointments or take care of basic needs because they don’t drive,” he said. "One of my roles is connecting them with transportation resources. It’s amazing to talk to them and tell them about the resources available that they weren’t aware of."
As part of his role Porter advocates for creative solutions to help residents who face financial barriers to transportation such as those needing transportation to specialty medical appointments.
"Getting to places like OSU for cancer treatment can cost $300-400 round trip," Porter said. "Many of our older residents don’t have family nearby to drive them, and some are no longer able to drive themselves. We have programs that offer financial help, but many people don’t qualify, especially seniors. Medicare doesn't pay for transportation, even with a supplement, leaving many unable to get to medical appointments or other essential services."
Porter helps those who "fall through the cracks" by providing transportation for individuals who don't qualify for existing financial assistance programs.
In addition to coordinating transportation resources, he collaborates closely with various local organizations, including the Knox County Board of Developmental Disabilities and Job and Family Services.
He also oversees the county’s human transportation plan, as required by the Ohio Department of Transportation.
Porter is acutely aware of the challenges many seniors or the disabled face when they can no longer drive themselves.
"One of these days, I'll probably reach the age that I won't be driving anymore, but I'll still need to get places," Porter said. "A lot of seniors who have driven all their lives suddenly can't anymore. How do they get somewhere?"
This reality is something many older adults in Knox County are grappling with.
Without the ability to drive, some seniors find themselves isolated at home, unsure of where to turn for transportation.
"It's a complete change in their life," Porter added.
To help address this issue, Knox County’s Mobility Management program offers a service called "Travel Training."
This program provides one-on-one or group sessions designed to introduce seniors to available transportation resources. By helping them understand how to schedule rides, navigate public transit, and access other services, the program aims to ease the transition for those no longer able to drive.
Porter emphasizes that these resources can help seniors maintain their independence and continue participating in their communities.
"We’re working to make sure they know where to go and how to get there," he said.
A significant part of Porter’s efforts is his advisory committee, which meets quarterly to discuss transportation issues. He emphasized the importance of involving community members, particularly those who use the resources, in the decision-making process.
"We’ve intentionally recruited committee members who are consumers or clients," he said. "Their input helps us understand the challenges people face."
Porter remains committed to making Mobility Management more accessible and ensuring that every resident has access to reliable transportation. However, he also faces a common misconception.
"People often think Mobility Management involves directly picking up and driving people," he said. "That’s not the case. It’s about coordination and connecting people with the resources they need. That’s one of the few things mobility managers cannot do, according to federal guidelines, and educating the public about this is part of my job."
Those seeking transportation assistance through Knox County’s Mobility Management can contact Porter at 740-392-2200 ext. 2218, on his cell at 740-485-5002 or by email at jporter@knoxhealth.com.
