Seniors aged 60 and older in the metro Detroit area can now access free roundtrip transportation to cultural and outdoor attractions through the Michigan Activity Pass (MAP) program. This initiative, which runs until September 30, 2024, covers participating destinations within Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. It aims to encourage local seniors to explore their communities and enjoy various recreational activities.
The MAP program, in collaboration with the Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency (Wayne Metro), offers this pilot service, which also provides free or discounted passes to cultural sites, parks, campgrounds, and recreation areas. Residents are required to have a library card to obtain a pass, which can be arranged through the MAP program. Transportation will be organized by Wayne Metro, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility needs.
Residents can book a pass to a destination of their choice at least seven days in advance. 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. The program caters to individual needs, including assistance for those who use wheelchairs or require help getting from their homes to vehicles.
According to DJ Bond, communications and member engagement manager for The Library Network, the aim of this initiative is to help seniors who may have limited transportation options or live in rural areas. “We want to reach those who may not have transportation at all,” Bond stated. The program hopes to alleviate barriers that prevent seniors from participating in community activities.
The MAP program itself has been in existence for nearly two decades, providing access to 475 destinations across Michigan through 637 libraries. In the tri-county area, there are currently 77 destinations available: 29 in Wayne County, 36 in Oakland County, and 12 in Macomb County.
Funding for the pilot program comes from a $20,000 sponsorship from United Healthcare. Bond emphasized that transportation has always been a consideration in providing access to destinations, noting the importance of connecting seniors to community resources. “We hope people take advantage of it this summer,” he added.
Organizers plan to evaluate the program’s success after its initial three-month period to determine whether it can be sustained or expanded with additional partners. Currently, Wayne Metro is assisting residents in booking their first trips, focusing primarily on those in Wayne County. Megan Wilk, director of innovative programs at Wayne Metro, highlighted the importance of the pilot in fostering community connections and promoting health and well-being among seniors.
Residents participating in the program are not limited to a single trip. If they enjoy the experience, they can book additional trips to other MAP destinations using the free transportation service. During the fiscal year from October 2023 to September 2024, approximately 18,000 MAP passes were checked out statewide, reflecting a 35% increase from the previous year.
To obtain a MAP pass, residents can apply online or by calling Wayne Metro’s Connect Center at 313-388-9799. The Connect Center operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. For those requiring additional assistance, Feonix – Mobility Rising, a nonprofit organization providing mobility services, also offers support. Their call center is available from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily for any inquiries regarding transportation.
As the program unfolds, it aims to reduce social isolation and enhance community engagement for seniors in the metro Detroit area. By offering free transportation and access to cultural experiences, the Michigan Activity Pass initiative is making strides toward improving the lives of older adults in the community.