Volunteer

Please complete the Volunteer Interest Form below if you are interested in learning more about what we do and possibly volunteering on our Board of Directors, Board of Advisors, or in some other capacity.

Please contact Development Coordinator Carolina Stewart at carolina@best-oregon.org with any questions.

About BEST

Better Eugene-Springfield Transportation (BEST) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is building a successful community by bringing people together to promote transportation options, safe streets, and walkable neighborhoods.

WHY: Transportation is essential for people to get to where they can learn, work, shop, or play. Moreover, how people get around affects our economy, equity, and the environment. After housing, transportation is typically the second highest household expense. And transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change. 

How our transportation system is designed affects the livability of our community and the vitality of our economy. Transportation options are typically spread inequitably amongst people of different ages, income levels, and abilities.

HOW: We identify issues of concern, educating ourselves and the community, bring people together, work towards win-win solutions, and advocate for the best interests of the community. We believe we are better when we speak and act together and in the power of partnerships. 

As an independent nonprofit, we support, push or pull local government officials and their staff to work better for the community. The community’s needs and voice must be amplified in transportation conversations. We are making a big impact locally and through coalitions statewide and even nationally.

WHAT: Formed in 2012 to support EmX bus rapid transit in West Eugene, we have expanded to now encompass all modes of transportation. Some of our current efforts include:

  • Better Streets for People and Businesses
    • Are streets in Eugene and Springfield safe, practical, and attractive for everyone today? If not, which need to be better? BEST is currently looking at Franklin Boulevard, River Road, and Main Street in Springfield.
  • Better Bicycling: BEST volunteers are exploring incremental improvements in bicycling. They are looking at advancing a network of neighborhood streets as safe and quiet bicycling routes and researching the practicality of bikes or e-bikes in rural areas.
  • Better Walking: For people to walk more, we need safe sidewalks. But what is a fair way to fund them? BEST volunteers are petitioning elected officials to consider options.
  • State Transportation Funding: BEST is working with partners across the state to ensure that limited taxpayer dollars do the most to benefit everyone. The State of Oregon is looking for more money to maintain highways.
  • Bike Happy Hours: Following BikePortland’s example, BEST is hosting a series of bike happy hours.
  • Better Ways Block Party: We bring together all things transportation for a celebration on the Park Blocks. Come to the party for games, demos, giveaways, food and drink, music, and lots of fun for the whole family!
  • Nexus for Eugene Sustainable Transportation (NEST): BEST is managing the former Center for Appropriate Transportation (CAT) building as a home for sustainable transportation.

WHO: So, who are we looking for to serve with BEST? Someone with:

  • Passion: A love for the Eugene-Springfield community, transportation, and a desire to improve it.
  • Collaborative Spirit: An ability to work effectively with diverse individuals to build consensus.
  • Open-Mindedness: A willingness to consider different perspectives and new ideas.
  • Ethical Conduct: Adherence to high ethical standards, transparency and accountability.
  • Problem-Solving: A thoughtful approach to challenges and finding solutions.
  • Resilience: The ability to persevere and maintain a positive outlook.

Last updated 1/29/25.