On any given route, you might spot them in neon green, answering questions, guiding new riders, and quietly improving the journey.

April marks the first anniversary of ABQ RIDE’s Ambassador Program. This customer service-focused volunteer initiative brings transit expertise to the public by helping bus riders navigate the system, promoting safety, and teaching people how to use apps like Transit, See Say, and ABQ RIDE GO!

“Ambassadors help us make the most of all our free transit services,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Because ABQ RIDE is actually much more than buses.”

In its first year, the Ambassador Program welcomed 13 volunteers who contributed 260 hours of service.

Transit ambassadors serve as “friendly guides to smoother rides.” They understand the importance of mass transportation, useful resources, and accessibility. Those interested in volunteering must participate in a free five-part training. Then, volunteers commit to a minimum of two hours of service per week. They can pick whichever route best suits them or their schedule and are invited to monthly meetings to connect with other ambassadors.

“Ambassadors are like built-in concierge agents who offer excellent customer service to improve your journey,” Transit Director Leslie Keener said. “Our team thanks these volunteers for their dedication and advocacy. Not only are they supporting the public, they’re helping our drivers focus on the road and promoting safety by sharing the See Say app.”

How Volunteers Are Shaping Safer, More Accessible Transit

In a typical shift, volunteers hop on a bus, talk to riders, answer questions, offer information, help plan trips, increase safety, demonstrate how to download and use transit apps, gather feedback, report any issues, and overall improve the rider experience.

“This volunteer opportunity is perfect for people who understand the importance of transit for community building, economic opportunity, and environmental well-being,” said Transit Deputy Director Bobby Sisneros. “By serving as ambassadors, volunteers improve the transit system for everyone by making ABQ RIDE’s services more welcoming and accessible.”

Transit advocate and advisory board chair Althea Atherton, who is also the program’s first volunteer, proudly wears the neon-green uniform and jumped into the role as soon as it became available.

“I enjoy volunteering as an ambassador because it lets me connect with other riders and help new and experienced fellow travelers alike navigate our system,” Atherton said. “And just our visible presence makes buses safer, taking pressure off drivers so they can focus on getting folks where they need to go.”

ABQ RIDE hosted a special celebration to honor the ambassadors’ contributions over the past year and to acknowledge their impact since the program's launch.

“I am grateful for and inspired by each of our ambassadors for making our transit system even better,” said Volunteer Program Coordinator Dwayne Baker. “Thank you for the time, energy, and care you have invested in supporting passengers and strengthening our transit community. Your presence has helped make ABQ RIDE a more welcoming, accessible, inclusive, and secure system for everyone. Your commitment does not go unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for all that you do!”