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Breeze emphasizes rider experience with ambassador volunteers and in‑person training
Summary
Sarasota County’s Breeze described its transit ambassador volunteer program and 'Breeze Academy' in‑person classes to help new riders learn routes, reducing intimidation and fostering rider confidence.
Sarasota County’s Breeze transit program is expanding outreach to help new riders feel comfortable using public transit, marketing lead Miranda Lansdale said, highlighting a volunteer transit ambassador program and in‑person training known as Breeze Academy.
The transit ambassador program is a county volunteer opportunity: ambassadors sit on buses, wear a vest and an "ask me about Breeze" button, greet and assist riders, and typically commit to about two‑hour shifts, Lansdale said. The program is intended to provide friendly guidance to first‑time riders and reduce anxiety about using routes and transfers.
Breeze also offers in‑person classes under "Breeze Academy," combining videos, Q&A, hands‑on activities and workbook practice to give riders a full, low‑pressure experience before needing transit for time‑sensitive trips. Video materials are also available online, Lansdale said.
The outreach follows months of partner engagement and a 2024 customer journey‑mapping exercise that revealed complexities—how fares, transfers and stop locations can confuse new riders. Lansdale encouraged a "try it before you need it" approach and pointed listeners to the Sarasota County volunteer web page and scgov.net/breeze for signups and class information.
“ If someone misses the bus, you can laugh about it together. You’re in good company and then you can troubleshoot and you can figure it out, ” Lansdale said, describing how a guided practice trip can build rider confidence.
