ECNV In-Person Travel Training Program to Resumes in July
Originally Published in June 2022, ECNV Newsletter
Summer’s here and it’s time to get moving! In partnership with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) also commonly referred to as “Metro,” ECNV will resume in-person travel training starting in July.
What is ECNV’s Travel Training Program?
Travel Training is an individualized program for people with disabilities. A travel trainer works with a trainee on their goals of being better able to utilize fixed route transportation. In our region, this means learning how to use the local bus and metro rail systems in a way that works for you. This program is for both beginners, who may need an orientation to the system and individual transit goals, as well as seasoned travelers who want to refine their skills.
How do I sign up and who is eligible?
There are a few avenues to sign up for training:
Text or call Andrew Shaw @ 703-719-1380, or e-mail andrews@ecnv.org
Call ECNV’s main line @ 703-525-3268
E-mail info@ecnv.org and request travel training
To be eligible for Travel Training, one must have either Disability Reduced Fare, Senior Smart Trip (available to those who are 65 or older) or be enrolled in Metro Access – WMATA’s ADA paratransit system. If you have a disability and don’t have any of those programs, a travel trainer can assist you in signing up for the Disability Reduced Fare program, or if you are 65 or older, we can assist you in obtaining a Senior Smart Trip card (Senior Smart Trip cards also can be purchased in places such as Commuter stores and additional retail outlets for age eligible individuals.)
What will I learn in Travel Training?
In-Person Travel Training skills include (but are not limited to):
Pandemic traveling safety (best practices for using transit during the ongoing pandemic)
Route planning, and practicing
Stranger Danger (i.e., what to do when you are approached or made to feel uncomfortable)
What are my Plan B’s?
And much more!
Is there a waitlist?
Due to past interest in the program, ECNV does anticipate a waitlist, So please sign up as soon as possible.
We hope to see you out there!