Seventy-eight-year-old Ron Anderson dedicates his time and energy to helping local seniors get around Colorado Springs.

“When I get a call that someone is new in town, I make arrangements to meet them at the senior center, the downtown terminal or a bus stop near their home,” he said. From there, Anderson helps seniors master the city’s bus system by helping them plan routes, map out helpful stops and navigate bus transfers.

“I have an 11-page brochure I’ve prepared – in large print so older people can read it – with all the info they need to get started,” he said. “It makes a big difference for people. One lady, I rode all day with her on the bus so she knew where to go for everything she needed.”

Anderson is one of three senior ambassadors with the Senior Ambassador Program – a partnership between for the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Area Agency on Aging. and Mountain Metropolitan Transit (MMT). The program pairs an ambassador with riders 50 years old and over to help them learn the ins and outs of the bus system – at no cost. Ambassadors are compensated with a free, 31-day bus pass, which Anderson thinks is well worth his time.

“I’ve been riding the bus since 2009, when I quit driving, and now I use it all the time – I meet a lot of people that way,” he said.

“Ron is a rockstar,” said PPACG Mobility Manager Angel Bond. “He loves the bus and will do whatever it takes to make sure a new rider feels comfortable and cared for. We need more ambassadors like him.”

Anderson’s assistance doesn’t end when he steps off the bus. “Anytime I’m helping someone new, I’ll make sure to get their address and phone number and write them a letter or call them when there’s a change in the bus schedule or route updates.”

Not only is he an expert on city routes in Colorado Springs, Anderson can spout off routes, schedules and senior pricing for a variety of Front Range bus and shuttle services. “There’s quite a bit of options, seniors don’t need to be stuck on their block. They can go all over the state if they like,” he said.

With 22 routes and almost 1,000 stops throughout the city, MMT runs about 11,000 one-way trips a day for its riders, saving them time and money. “If it’s about $8,000 a year to own and operate a car, that’s quite a bit when you’re on a fixed income,” said Vicki McCann, public relations and marketing supervisor for MMT. “Our transit options are much more affordable for individuals and economical for the community as a whole.”

The benefits of utilizing public transit extends far beyond saving seniors money. “Studies show seniors who use the bus are more fit and maintain their physical mobility longer,” McCann said. “You can’t use public transportation without doing a little bit of walking.”

For more information on how the Senior Ambassador Program can help you get around town or to sign up to serve as an ambassador, visit transit.coloradosprings.gov.