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    VCTC Offers iPads to Those Who Pledge to Share Rides

    Sept. 22, 2014
    Throughout the week of Oct. 6-10, employers and employees across the county are invited to participate in Ventura County’s Rideshare Week by submitting their pledges to share the ride.
    Related To: Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC)

    Most of us are not strangers to social media.  In fact, we are more connected than ever before.  Now, in celebration of Rideshare Week 2014, you are invited to join a new social network…Rideshare!

    Throughout the week of Oct. 6-10, employers and employees across the county are invited to participate in Ventura County’s Rideshare Week by submitting their pledges to share the ride. In previous years this event has brought together all forms of alternative transportation, including carpooling, vanpooling, biking, walking, taking the bus or train, and telecommuting. This year, participants are also encouraged to share their ridesharing experience or photos and make new connections via social media as they try out new commute choices or continue their good habits.

    The Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) and Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD) are teaming up to make this year's Rideshare Week their most fun and exciting promotion yet. By submitting a pledge – either online at www.GoVenturaRideshare.org or via their employer's designated representative – employees ages 18 and older throughout Ventura County will be entered for a chance to win great prizes while reducing emissions and helping keep our environment clean and beautiful.

    Pledges are due to employer representatives no later than Oct. 10. Pledges submitted directly to VCTC must be received by Oct. 17.

    “Sharing the ride is networking to reduce congestion and air pollution,” said VCAPCD Air Quality Specialist Judy Willens, “Less driving, even one day a week, makes a difference.  Create a rideshare network during Rideshare week, and let them know you’re ready for a ride.”

    The first 1,000 participants to submit pledge cards automatically win a $5.00 Starbucks gift card.  Five grand prize winners will be selected to receive 16 GB Wi-Fi equipped Apple iPad tablets. Additional prizes include Apple iPods (two winners), $100 VISA gift cards (two winners), $50 iTunes gift cards (two winners), $25 VISA gift cards (four winners), and $25 iTunes gift cards (four winners), as well as other bonus prizes.

    One example of a free resource is the customized electronic RideGuide that provides potential carpool matches, park-and-ride lot locations, and information on bus and vanpool services. Free downloadable event and promotional resources are available online as well for employers to promote Rideshare Week at their worksites. Spanish-language materials are also available and include posters and pledge cards.

    “Nobody enjoys a stressful commute, so why not consider an alternative?” said Alan Holmes, VCTC’s commuter services program manager. “The fact is, you don’t have to rideshare every day, but once you try it, we believe you’ll discover the benefits.”