The Michigan Activity Pass (MAP) program is launching a three-month pilot initiative providing free, roundtrip transportation for residents aged 60 and older in the tri-county area of metro Detroit, which includes Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. This service, available until September 30, 2023, aims to facilitate access to various cultural and outdoor destinations for seniors who may face mobility challenges.
Operated in partnership with the Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency and The Library Network, the program emphasizes inclusivity, allowing seniors to explore local attractions alongside a caregiver or companion. Residents must possess a library card to obtain a pass for their chosen destination, which can be booked at least seven days in advance. Transportation is organized by Wayne Metro, who also assists individuals in acquiring library cards if needed.
“This initiative is designed to encourage seniors to engage with their communities,” said DJ Bond, communications and member engagement manager for The Library Network. “We want to reach those who might lack transportation options or who find driving challenging due to mobility constraints.”
Participants have the flexibility to visit any of the 77 MAP destinations located within the tri-county area. For instance, a resident from Detroit could visit the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium in Auburn Hills, while someone from northern Oakland County might explore the Detroit Institute of Arts in Wayne County. The transportation will cater to individual needs, including provisions for service dogs and wheelchair accessibility.
The pilot program launched on July 1, 2023, and its performance will be evaluated to determine potential expansion and sustainability. Funding for this initiative comes from a sponsorship of $20,000 from United Healthcare, underscoring the significance of community support.
According to Megan Wilk, Wayne Metro’s director of innovative programs, this pilot is crucial for enhancing seniors’ well-being and fostering connections within their local communities. “We want seniors to explore their surroundings and build social ties,” she remarked.
The MAP program has a rich history, having been in operation for nearly two decades, and is available through 637 libraries across Michigan. In the current fiscal year, approximately 18,000 MAP passes were checked out statewide, representing a 35% increase from the previous year. The program features a wide range of attractions, with 29 in Wayne County, 36 in Oakland County, and 12 in Macomb County.
Participants can book multiple trips to different destinations, allowing them to make the most of this opportunity. “We are hopeful that people will take advantage of this service throughout the summer,” Bond stated, highlighting the program’s goal of reducing isolation among seniors.
Residents can access the MAP pass and transportation services through various channels, including online booking or by calling Wayne Metro’s Connect Center at 313-388-9799. The center operates Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00 and Saturday from 09:00 to 12:00, providing support for scheduling rides and resolving any issues that may arise.
The program also offers reliable communication during transportation, ensuring that residents receive timely updates about their rides, including driver identification and vehicle details. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement while prioritizing the safety and comfort of participants.
As the pilot continues, organizers remain focused on assessing its effectiveness and exploring potential collaborations for broader implementation. The emphasis remains on enriching the lives of seniors in metro Detroit, ensuring that they have the means to connect with their community and enjoy local attractions.
