Unlocking Opportunities with the Free Youth Bus Pass: Pt. 2

Comment on youth transit from Nikki Fortunato Bas

By the 2025 Genesis MICAH Fellow

For over ten years, the Free Youth Bus Pass Program has been at the heart of Genesis’ organizing efforts. During the June 28, 2025 Alameda County Transportation Commission Meeting, Sup. Nikki Fortunato Bas made a comment lifting up the importance of Genesis and community leaders in making the program a success (Click on the link on the left).

As a grassroots organization deeply rooted in Alameda County, Genesis was among the earliest supporters of Measure BB (the program funding mechanism), recognizing early on how critical youth transit access is for our communities.

Genesis is and has been devoted to mobilizing its base to educate voters about the importance of investing in youth transit. Genesis believes that access to reliable transportation is essential for young people to reach school, jobs, internships, and extracurricular opportunities. To better understand the impact, Genesis has conducted focus groups with middle and high school students. We still remember hearing how meaningful and necessary this investment truly helps them. We have learned that Free Youth Bus Pass Program has helped emphasize the importance of including those who may be facing challenges such as suspension or disciplinary issues. These are the youth who need support the most, and a bus pass can make a real difference in helping them stay connected and engaged.

We would like to say congratulations to ACTC and to every individual and organization who made this moment possible. This is not just a win for Genesis, this is a win for every young person in Alameda County. If you would like to join our transit team, contact us at gamaliel.genesisca@gmail.com.