Join the National Coalition

To: elected and other leaders who have not previously participated

Subject: A Unique Opportunity to Shape the Future of Mobility!

Dear [TITLE] [FULL NAME],

As a key influencer in [position/title] the [decisions you make/work you do] around transportation planning, policies and funding profoundly shapes our community. That’s why we at [organization] are inviting you to take part in the Week Without Driving in [town/city], happening September 29-October 5, 2025. We believe that your participation could inspire many others to join and serve as a powerful example of leadership in addressing the critical transportation issues in our community.

What began as a local challenge to not drive for one week for leaders in Washington State in 2021, the Week Without Driving has grown to a national event since 2023. Leaders across the country have embraced this transformative experience, gaining firsthand insights into the daily realities face by their nondriver constituents.

As you’ll hear in this 2022 video and this 2024 video, elected officials share how valuable the experience was for them, and they invite leaders like you to join them. Last year alone, nearly 700 decision makers participated, generating widespread national, local and social media coverage. Watch this highlight reel to see the impact of their participation and leadership.

Your unique perspective and reflections would be a vital contribution to our understanding of the current state of transportation in our community. We will support you every step of the way and we’d be thrilled to amplify your reflections to inspire broader community engagement.

Join us by signing up here. If you need more information or assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out! Thank you for considering this opportunity to lead by example and help shape a more accessible transportation for all.

[your organization’s local contact and sign off]

TO: Any community member

SUBJECT: Are You Ready for a New Perspective on Transportation?

Dear [FIRST NAME],

What if, just for one week, you experienced your daily life without relying on a car? How might it change your perspective on the way our community moves?

From September 29th through October 5th, we invite you to join us for the Week Without Driving! This initiative isn’t just about experiencing life without driving; it’s a week to step into a whole new world and discover travel without a car. Uncover new ways to make our transportation system more accessible and equitable by experiencing it firsthand.

In 2021 and 2022, Washington state saw leaders, advocates, and individuals embrace the Week Without Driving, finding it immensely beneficial. Encouraged by their experiences, the initiative went national in 2023 and has gained extensive local and social media coverage and attracted thousands of community members like yourself. Check out this recap from last year!

This year, [organization name] will be hosting the event right here in [town/city] and we are inviting you to join us! Your voice matters in this conversation. Your participation can bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within our transportation ecosystem. We’re here to support you as you explore this experience and we’re excited to amplify your voice as part of this week!

Sign up today to get involved.

[your organization’s local contact and sign off]

TO: ALL signed up participants

SUBJECT: Welcome to [City or Organization]’s Week Without Driving!

Hello [FULL NAME],

Big thanks for teaming up with us at [Organization], leaders, and advocates from across the country who are participating in the Week Without Driving, which will run from Monday, September 29th to Sunday, October 5th this year.

First, why are we here?

Imagine not having a car every day. That’s the reality for a third of people who live in the U.S., especially those with disabilities, young people, seniors, and people who can’t afford cars or gas. We encourage you to read about the experiences of nondrivers in resources like this Washington state story map, watch last year’s highlight video. As you read and hear these stories, consider how nondrivers in your area may experience similar barriers with everyday mobility.

How Does the Week Without Driving Work?

You can get around however you want, but the challenge is not to drive yourself in any car. This applies to all your activities — not just your work commute. If you normally transport other family members or friends, it applies to those trips too.

You can ask someone else to drive you, but make a note of how much you “owe” this person for their time, and if you feel obligated to support them in other ways (i.e., doing all the dishes). You can use taxis or ride-hail if they exist where you need to go, but again, think about how the cost could impact your decision to take this trip if this was regularly your only option.

Keep this in mind!

This isn’t a disability simulation or a test of how easily you can find alternatives. We know that it is far easier to give up your keys if you can afford to live in a walkable area well served by transit or can outsource your driving and other transport and delivery needs to other people. Having to drive during the challenge does not signify failure. The point is to consider how someone without that option would have coped, and what choices they might need to make.

Just as the week is not a simulation of how easily you can find alternatives, the week is not a celebration of car-free living or a Bike Everywhere event. If you live car-free or bicycle by choice, take this week to consider and reflect on how you would get around without those options or if they were less available to you.

We strongly encourage you to treat the week like any other by not clearing your calendar or otherwise minimizing your typical travel during the week. Live your week as usual! Avoid stocking up or dodging commitments. If you reschedule something, think about how a nondriver would’ve managed.

We’ll provide you with tools to prepare for the #WeekWithoutDriving and prompts during the week to reflect on what you’re learning and share with your community and other participants across the country. Use #WeekWithoutDriving to share your prep and thoughts. Got questions? Just ask!

Keep an eye on your inbox for updates and tips as we gear up for this amazing initiative! And remember to invite your family, friends, and neighbors!

[your organization’s local contact and sign off]