Get Involved with Active Transportation

Making a Difference

Clark County citizens are essential in creating communities designed for Active Transportation. You do not have to be a transportation expert to speak up and say that making our community more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly is important to you.

Many decision makers such as elected officials, public works managers, employers, and school administrators are not familiar with the benefits of Active Transportation. Their understanding of this concept- and its importance -largely depends on input from the community. Change is often brought about because a citizen or group of citizens asks a question, states a preference, or suggests a new idea.

What is an advocate?

An advocate is someone who tries to influence the decision of someone else. Typically, an advocate wants to improve a situation that will ultimately benefit more people than just themselves alone. The action taken by advocates is called “advocacy.” Advocates are from all walks of life. Anyone can do advocacy! Here are examples of advocacy in action:

A citizen influencing how an elected or pubic official stands on an issue such as the location of a new
crosswalk or the importance of zoning for mixed use development.
A parent influencing how a school makes it safe and easy for students to walk and bike to school.
A family member influencing how often their family walks or bikes instead of drives on short errands.

How do advocates influence others?

Advocates influence by educating others and helping find solutions to challenges. Advocates do not simply complain about an issue or situation. Advocates offer to be part of the solution by volunteering, sharing ideas, suggesting or contributing resources and leading by example.

Examples of how advocates educate others:

talking with others in person
writing letters to the editor
writing to their school board
providing public comment at a local government meeting
participating in a citizen discussion
contacting their elected official

Tools to help you make a difference!

Share your story

Tell us your successes and challenges in making Active Transportation part of your lifestyle: Share Your Story.