Trillium Woods’ Transportation Team Always Goes the Extra Mile
At Trillium Woods, Plymouth, MN’s premier senior living community, the professional drivers who lead the transportation program offer more than just a ride from point A to point B. Led by Transportation Coordinators Brian Johnson and Jeff Fluke, the team supports residents’ freedom, mobility, and independence while extending Trillium Woods’ famous can-do attitude and friendly hospitality beyond the community’s campus.
Jeff, who has been with Trillium Woods for eight years, oversees a team of six drivers and a fleet of five vehicles, including three SUVs and two passenger buses.
Much of the service is complimentary for residents, with designated days for free transportation to medical appointments within 15 miles and regularly scheduled shopping trips.
“Our fees for other trips are very reasonable,” he explains. “We offer 24/7 service for medical appointments, social outings, and more. We also offer group trips to places like the Minnesota Arboretum, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, and the Guthrie Theater.”
The feedback from residents is overwhelmingly positive. “People appreciate the opportunity to get out and enjoy themselves without worrying about driving, especially at night or in bad weather,” Jeff notes.
Door to Door — And More
The transportation program at Trillium Woods is known for its highly personalized service. “We go beyond just providing a ride,” Jeff says. “For example, with airport runs, we help with luggage, pick residents up right at their door, and drop them off at the airport. When they return, we do the same, ensuring their journey is as smooth as possible.”
But that’s only the first level of care that Jeff and his team provide their passengers. “We like to think ahead about how we improve every experience. When we go to the airport in winter to pick up residents returning from somewhere warm, we bring blankets and keep the car nice and toasty. People traveling home from places like Arizona often arrive dressed in light clothing, and we want to make sure their transition back to Minnesota is a pleasant and welcoming one!”
Genuine Relationships and Superior Service
“I’ve been at Trillium Woods almost from the beginning, and I’ve gotten to know many residents very well,” he says. “It’s not just about driving them around; it’s about being a friendly face and someone they can rely on. We build relationships with the residents — they know us, and we’ve earned their trust, which makes a huge difference.”
Jeff’s team is known for going above and beyond for residents. For instance, a resident wanted to visit her husband’s grave, but she couldn’t navigate the muddy cemetery in her power wheelchair. “We built a makeshift 50-yard track with two-by-fours and plywood so she could reach the grave safely,” Jeff says. “When we drove her there, and she saw that she could get there on her own — the look on her face was absolutely worth it.”
In another instance, a resident was in the hospital for a longer time than was expected and he was really missing his dog. “His wife was telling us that the dog was also sad. So we sort of arranged to sneak his dog into the entryway of the hospital and he was able to come down and they could visit. It brought so much joy to everyone,” Jeff recounts.
The team also steps in during emergencies. “There was a holiday weekend when a resident needed to come home from the hospital, but her family couldn’t get there. We rearranged our schedule to bring her home, making the weekend special for her and her husband,” Jeff says.
Training and Safety
While hospitality is important, safety is the top priority for Jeff and his team. “We do extensive training to ensure our drivers are prepared for any situation,” Jeff explains. “From dealing with construction zones to handling inclement weather, our drivers are trained to think ahead and mitigate potential issues.”
The team is also equipped to assist residents with mobility challenges. “We often help residents with walkers, scooters, and wheelchairs. Our goal is to make their journey as smooth and stress-free as possible,” Jeff says.
A Labor of Love
Jeff became the Transportation Coordinator after an actuarial career. “I was looking for something meaningful to do after retiring, and working with seniors was a good fit,” he says. “It’s more about giving back and building relationships than anything else.”
When asked why he chose to work with seniors, Jeff pauses thoughtfully. “I think it’s about respecting and honoring the contributions they’ve made to our community and society over the years. They deserve to age gracefully and receive good services. I’m also hoping that when I become a senior, someone will treat me with the same respect and care.”
An Important Part of the Worry-Free Trillium Woods Experience
Jeff’s team aren’t just drivers, they are an integral part of what makes Trillium Woods special. “We open doors, shake hands, and take the time to get to know our residents,” he says. “We know that we’re doing more than giving people a lift. We’re helping people stay active, independent, and connected without worrying about how they’ll get around.”
To learn more about the exceptional services and amenities that Trillium Woods offers its residents, visit https://www.trilliumwoodslcs.com/community-life/services-amenities/.