The heart of iowa regional transit agency, hirta, is a quasi governmental agency organized under a 28E agreement with the state of iowa

Hirta was created in 1981 to provide public transportation in seven counties in central iowa, including madison county. An estimated 75 rsvp volunteers will serve and all 75 rsvp volunteers will be placed in outcome assignments. Some of their activities will include companionship, nutrition / food support and transportation. The primary focus area of this project is healthy futures. At the end of the three-year grant, 75 individuals will report having increased social support or improved capacity for independent living. The cncs federal investment of $75,000 will be supplemented by $8,334 local investment. Hirta has many community partners. Working with organizations such as aging resources of central iowa, madison county public health, the community action program and madison county elderly services, hirta will expand our core service to individuals who are at risk of isolation, would otherwise not be able to access healthy food, medical services and already in the highest risk of isolation. Creating an rsvp in madison county will enhance the quality of life for many under-served, while simultaneously increasing volunteer opportunities for those who wish to volunteer in their community. Hirta has brand awareness and is a trusted resource in the community, therefore expanding a new program, in partnership with cncs, will enrich the lives of many in this community.