Helping Connect Workers to Jobs
Real Problem
FlexRide Milwaukee is a new “last mile” transit service connecting workers in the City of Milwaukee to the front doors of employers in two area suburbs. It launched in February 2022 as a pilot. A month later, awareness was low. It needed more riders and participating businesses in order to survive in 2023 and beyond – and solve a long-standing connectivity problem confronting many residents and businesses in the area.
Solution
Riding to Success – Carl Collective provided much-needed support, starting with planning and executing FlexRide’s launch event. Earned media and strong media coverage captured the attention of local businesses, nonprofit leaders and key elected officials across the region and state. Building on this momentum, strategic social and PR efforts were deployed to further increase awareness and generate buzz around FlexRide, ultimately resulting in record-breaking weekly ridership and establishing credibility. With it came increased state funding to sustain FlexRide through 2024 and additional services — including expanded coverage areas, connections with child care centers, and 24-hour service Monday-Friday.