On March 25, Dan Hendry presented an inspiring webinar for The Atlantic Canada Climate Network and the Canadian Environmental Network, showcasing the transformative power of youth-focused transit initiatives. Highlighting Kingston, Ontario’s success, Dan emphasized how free student transit dramatically increased ridership from 28,000 to nearly 600,000 annually. Over 20 Canadian communities now look to this model to boost sustainability, autonomy, and inclusivity.

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Program Director Dan Hendry recently had the pleasure of joining the Sustainably Geeky podcast to discuss his work on youth transit initiatives, including Get on the Bus.

In Edmonton, we brought youth voices to the forefront through two inspiring initiatives that combined art and advocacy. At M.E. LaZerte High School, over 45 students collaborated with Cree artist Jayda Delorme to create a powerful mural that reimagines transit as a force for community, equity, and reconciliation. Alongside this, our team led a youth transit feasibility study that challenged the limits of the fare-free debate and proposed actionable steps to expand access. Together, these projects show how youth creativity and research can drive real change in public systems.

A recent report from Environmental Defence and Équiterre suggests Canada’s federal and provincial governments must use public transit as a tool for reducing nationwide carbon emissions. The report proposes using the Permanent Public Transit Fund to support the operational costs of transit systems across the country, rather than for capital costs. The report asserts that operational funding is the key to improved service and therefore improved ridership.

Get on the Bus is thrilled to welcome Sophia Young as our Edmonton Consultant. Sophia became a public transit advocate after facing transportation barriers in her youth. At the age of 15, she helped direct a successful fare-free transit campaign for youth thirteen and under in her hometown of Regina, Saskatchewan.

James Beyer, a second-year marketing student, joins Small Change Fund's Get on the Bus movement. His personal connection drives enthusiasm for free transit, reflecting on its impact on his adolescence. Excited to contribute, James values the movement's equitable youth mobility.

Discover how Halton Hills is paving the way for sustainable transportation! Their $4.00 cash fare and integrated travel modes make commuting a breeze.

On Saturday, February 17th, 2024 Get on the Bus co-founder Dan Hendry discussed the current state of youth transit, as well as the future of the movement, with Adam Johnston from Not Necessarily The Automobile. The Winnipeg-based radio series focuses on alternative transportation in Adam’s home city.