A Week Without Driving

October 1st – 8th, 2026

What would your week look like if you couldn’t drive?

For many people across rural Minnesota, transportation is more than a convenience. It is the connection to healthcare, groceries, employment, family, and essential services.

During A Week Without Driving (October 1-8), we invite you to consider the challenges faced by older adults, people with disabilities, low-income families, and others who may not have reliable access to transportation.

For some, missing a ride doesn’t just mean inconvenience. It can mean missing a medical appointment, delaying treatment, or struggling to access basic necessities.

At UCAP, we work every day to ensure that transportation is not a barrier to independence and well-being.

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Stories From Our Riders

Access to Essential Healthcare

“UCAP volunteers help me with transportation to doctor appointments in Sioux Falls. I do not drive beyond local doctor visits and grocery shopping.”

For many individuals, long-distance medical appointments would be difficult or impossible without transportation assistance. Volunteer drivers help ensure that residents can receive the specialized care they need.

Supporting Independence

“Since I can’t drive any more, rides to Sioux Falls for doctor appointments are very much appreciated!”

The loss of the ability to drive can be a major life transition. Transportation services help older adults remain independent, connected, and confident that they can continue accessing important healthcare services.

Peace of Mind

“I was wondering and worrying about how I was going to make it to my medical appointments in Sioux Falls. It was such a relief to find out there was a service I could use for this.”

Transportation is about more than getting from one place to another. It provides reassurance, reduces stress, and helps people focus on their health rather than worrying about how they will get to their next appointment.

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Why Transportation Matters

Reliable transportation helps people:

• Attend medical appointments
• Access prescription medications
• Buy groceries and household essentials
• Maintain independence as they age
• Stay connected to family, friends, and community resources
• Reduce stress and isolation

In many rural communities, transportation options are limited. A simple ride can make a life-changing difference.

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The Impact of a Ride

Every ride helps someone:

• Get to a medical appointment
• Access specialized healthcare services
• Maintain independence
• Stay connected to their community
• Reduce feelings of stress and isolation
• Improve their quality of life

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Join the Conversation

During A Week Without Driving, take a moment to reflect:

• How would you get to work without a vehicle?
• How would you attend medical appointments?
• How would you shop for groceries or pick up prescriptions?
• Who in your community faces these challenges every day?

Understanding transportation barriers is the first step toward creating stronger, more connected communities.

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UCAP Transportation Services

UCAP’s transportation programs help connect community members to the services and support they need to live healthy, independent lives.

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