Getting Started for Community Organizations

Community organizations can help broaden the reach and impact of Safe Routes to School programs. Specific examples include:

Non-profits (trail groups, bike clubs, volunteer organizations etc.)

• Host education and encouragement events
• Provide educational materials
• Volunteer to teach pedestrian and bicycle safety in schools
• Serve as liaisons to other community partners

Neighborhood Associations

• Lead a walk audit and discuss safety or engineering issues at Neighborhood Association meetings
• Spread the word about Safe Routes to School programs to neighbors
• Recruit volunteers to lead walking school buses or bike trains
• Post yard signs along school walking routes reminding drivers to slow down

Local Businesses

• Sponsor Walk or Bike to School Days by donating supplies or staff time. Check out walkbiketoschool.org for more ideas
• Urge elected officials to support Safe Routes to School
• Serve as liaisons to other community partners

Disability Advocates

• Serve on Safe Routes to School teams to ensure physical infrastructure and programs serve users of all abilities