by Lisa Hancock
John Erickson has visited 48 states, but the journeys closest to his Rockford, Ill., home hold many of his fondest memories. For 22 years, he’s been at the helm of The Salvation Army’s Eden Express, a 15-passenger bus that has whisked low-income older adults on sightseeing trips. He’s made 8,500 trips in all! From Dubuque, Iowa, to Madison, Wis., John has driven seniors to museums, zoos, iconic landmarks, art galleries, apple orchards, theaters and sporting events—creating cherished experiences and enriching their lives.
The Eden Express traces back two decades to when then corps officer Lt. Colonel Dan Sjögren and Norma Baker, community relations director, sought to expand the senior outreach program. Inspired by a meeting at Anderson Gardens, the idea took shape. The Anderson family’s generous donation of a 15-passenger bus provided the means to realize this vision, and they have gifted two additional buses as each needed to be replaced.
The excursions have offered new adventures for many older adults who would otherwise be constrained to familiar surroundings by the burden of driving and financial constraints. Whether the thrill of catching a baseball game at Miller Park in Milwaukee or the serenity found viewing a Christmas light display at Sinnissippi Park, outings have been met with gratitude. With an intimate knowledge of back roads, John has crafted each journey with care and consideration, taking a different route home to maximize the sightseeing.
But the biggest blessing has not been the destination, but the experiences shared, friendships made and joy experienced along the way.
For John, who is a Salvationist, it’s been a ministry. He has been a witness of God’s love and goodness, and he has prayed for passengers on each trip. John recalls a time when he needed prayer himself. On a trip to historic Galena, he received a call saying his mother-in-law had passed away. All of the passengers surrounded him to pray for his family. “I will never forget that,” John said.
During the pandemic, trips via the Eden Express ground to a halt, but with John’s dedication, the bus found a new purpose delivering hot meals during the holidays. John also delivered groceries via other vehicles.
It’s hoped that the Eden Express will hit the road again soon, but a new person will be in the driver’s seat as John has made the bittersweet decision to retire. But his witness and service will continue to inspire others that one person really can make a difference.
