While we’re fortunate to have a bus system in Washtenaw County, transportation is still a huge challenge for many- especially in rural parts of the county. For the past four years, Feonix Mobility Rising has partnered with the AARP Ride @ 50+ program to connect older adults with transportation and offer free and reduced rides for medical appointments like Covid vaccines. Feonix has their eye on the future with a variety of transportation programs aimed at older adults in Washtenaw County. Recently we talked with Rebecca Yaciuk, Community Development Manager for Feonix Mobility Rising, about the variety of transportation programs they offer the community.
Senior Resource Connect: If you had to give an “elevator speech” about what your organization does, how would you describe it?
Rebecca Yaciuk: Feonix is a non-profit with a vision to create mobility solutions for the health and well-being of every person in every community. Our work is to break down barriers through the Transportation Assistance Hubs, which provides transportation solutions and resource navigation for the community.
SRC: Walk me through the step-by-step process. What happens when you get a phone call/referral?
RY: To book a ride, anyone can call in, go online, or use our smartphone “Catch-A-Ride” app (available on Apple App Store and Google Play). Riders can enter their pick up and drop off addresses, date and time of the ride, as well as their mobility needs. Once that information is collected, the technology allows them to pick a ride that would work best for them. It’s kind of like Expedia for local transportation!
For our referral-based programs, individuals, community partners, or even a friend or loved one can submit a referral to our grant-based programs. Within a few days, one of Feonix’s Mobility Navigators will follow up to conduct an intake to determine eligibility for programs and services, including no cost transportation and referral supports.
SRC: What organizations do you work closely with?
RY: We have a multitude of partners across our community, including social service organizations, healthcare entities, veteran service organizations, senior centers, small businesses, and transportation companies.
SRC: What are some things you wish the public knew about your role?
RY: It’s hard to understand how the lack of transportation options impacts someone’s life and wellbeing. Car ownership is so synonymous with independence, that it’s difficult to understand what someone’s life can look like. Many of us have friends, family, and other support we can rely on to help us get around, but that may not always be available. If you are near public transportation, you have a low-cost option to get around, but if you are not, then costs associated with getting around to appointments, grocery shopping, and more are prohibitive, especially as many older adults have to adhere to budgets.
SRC: What tips do you have for someone who needs assistance with transportation?
RY: Please call to learn more about Feonix or take some time to explore our app! Caregivers can book on behalf of their loved one and are able to track the process. We know how much time and effort is put in to take care of someone as they age. This is a great resource to get them where they need to go.
SRC: Is there anything you would like to add?
RY: Feonix is happy to provide in-person trainings for community organizations, senior residences, and other groups that can benefit from the program!
Thank you so much to Rebecca for sharing information about these valuable community resources! To learn more about Feonix, visit feonixmobilityrising.org.
Visit the Senior Resource Connect Resource Directory for information about transportation resources in the community.
