Driver situation getting better for van that takes Baker County veterans to medical appointments

Published 6:07 am Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Dani Huck is feeling better about the volunteer service that drives Baker County veterans to medical appointments in Idaho.

Huck coordinates the program through the Disabled American Veterans.

In December, Huck was briefly without any drivers after one volunteer moved away and the other had eye surgery.

Huck’s public call for help has yielded results.

Ken Krohn, a Baker City resident and president of the Baker Rotary Club, volunteered, and Huck said he is close to finishing the process to be certified, which includes a physical examination and background check conducted by the U.S. Veterans Administration.

A few other people have also volunteered, Huck said.

Krohn invited her to speak during the Rotary Club’s meeting on Monday, Feb. 3, and that appearance has also resulted in a few volunteers expressing interest in driving the van, Huck said on Tuesday.

In the meantime, she has two drivers available. The volunteer who moved away has returned to Baker City temporarily.

Two drivers is sufficient during winter, when Huck said there is relatively little demand for rides due to the weather.

But that will change come spring.

“I’d love to have at least six or seven drivers at least,” Huck said.

About 2,000 veterans live in Baker County, roughly 12% of the county’s population.

Anyone interested in driving can call Huck at 541-406-9053 and she can get the process started of making sure a volunteer can be approved to drive.

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