Carole Price celebrated her 30-year anniversary with OATS, Inc. this year. As an OATS driver for the people of McDonald County, she has witnessed many changes over the course of her years with OATS.

Price believes the newer OATS buses of today, provide people with a more comfortable ride than the buses used in the days when she first started. Price began driving in 1981, at that time she only took her riders to the grocery store and back home. “Now I pick people up, take them to the senior center, doctor, beauty shop, post office and anywhere they need to go in town,” Price says.

Price also likes the fact that OATS no longer only transports senior citizens. “Now, anybody can ride, regardless of their age,” Price says.

Price has four children, nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren. They all keep her very busy when she is not driving for OATS. One of their favorite things to do is to go on nature walks in the woods together.

Southwest Regional Director, Scott Kosky admires Carole’s dedication to her community. “It goes beyond what she does at OATS.” Kosky says. “She can often be found volunteering to help others throughout the county.”

Carole takes great pride in her work with OATS. She plays an important role in McDonald County’s ability to transport riders to the places they need to go each day. She has formed bonds with most of her riders. “All of them are special in their own way,” Price says.