Goodwill’s mission is to help individuals with disabilities or disadvantages who seek greater independence. An important step to that independence is transportation, whether it aids in getting to a job or helps in having a more fulfilling personal life. Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) realizes how valuable reliable, affordable, accessible transportation is to individuals, which is why they have a program called Freedom on Wheels. Through this program, MCTS staff go out into the community, at no charge, to teach individuals about bus transportation.
Goodwill’s Community Opportunities Club South recently participated in a Freedom on Wheels seminar in the classroom and ride around Southridge Mall in Greendale. Everyone learned a great deal and had a lot of fun. They would like to thank the MCTS staff who helped make that happen – Daniel Jahn (Driver), Jessica Jahn (Travel Trainer), Jo-Ellen Douville (Travel Trainer) and Chris Fox (Mobility Coordinator).
Freedom on Wheels is a two-part presentation – part classroom and part ride. The classroom instruction focuses on transportation options, accessible fare forms, proper etiquette on the bus, rules, safety, and route planning. Part two involves a tour of a MCTS bus and a short ride to get a real hands-on experience of riding a bus. During the ride, participants practice what was discussed in the classroom.
The results of the Freedom on Wheels program encompass many things:
- Improved confidence
- Increased independence
- Better understanding of MCTS and what it offers
- Good bus etiquette
- Problem solving techniques
- General enjoyment of using the bus
Thank you to the Milwaukee County Transit System for supporting our mission of independence through the Freedom on Wheels program! Click here for more information on Goodwill’s Mission programs.
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