SamTrans is looking for a few good people. The Transit District is recruiting volunteers for its new Mobility Ambassador Program. The volunteers will introduce seniors and people with disabilities to the wide variety of transit options available in San Mateo County.

The number of older people in San Mateo County is expected to double in the next 20 years. “The Transit District is hoping to help seniors and those with disabilities overcome their anxiety about taking transit,” said SamTrans General Manager/CEO Mike Scanlon. “People who know how to use public transportation can keep their independence even if they have given up driving.”

All Mobility Ambassadors will receive comprehensive training, so no experience is necessary. After completing the training, the ambassadors will work one-on-one with seniors and people with disabilities to help them plan trips and accompany them as they learn to navigate the public transportation system.

Six senior centers in San Mateo County will serve as “host centers” for the program. Ambassadors will be available at the Doelger Senior Center, East Palo Alto Senior Center, Foster City Senior Wing, Redwood City Veterans Memorial Senior Center, City of San Mateo Senior Center and the San Carlos Adult Community Center by the end of November.

Mobility Ambassadors must be 18 years of age and able to volunteer at least four hours a week. Volunteers must complete a training program and will be required to attend three of four quarterly meetings. As part of the program, Mobility Ambassadors will receive a SamTrans Monthly Pass.

The Mobility Ambassador Program is funded by a grant from the Federal Transit Administration’s New Freedom Program through the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. The New Freedom Program provides grants for new capital and operational projects aimed at reducing, beyond the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, transportation barriers faced by individuals with disabilities.

For information or to apply to be an ambassador, email ambassador@samtrans.com or call Senior Mobility Coordinator Jean Conger at 650-508-6362.

09/25/09 - crd
Media Contact: Christine Dunn, 650.508.6238