EMBARK and Pivot partner to expand Climb Ride program

EMBARK is expanding its Climb Ride program to support youth ages 17-24 participating in Pivot's Transitional Living Program (TLP). 

“EMBARK is excited to expand our Climb Ride program to Pivot’s transition-age youth,” said Dr. Marilyn Dillon, EMBARK mobility management coordinator. “It’s an opportunity to demonstrate the power of collaborative efforts to improve the lives of these young people as they enter the workforce or seek educational opportunities.” 

EMBARK is part of the Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority (COTPA), a public trust managed by the city. The original Climb Ride program helps parents with active child welfare cases in Oklahoma County reunite with their children by providing case management, transportation coordination and travel training. 

The new Climb Ride program provides participants with free rides to school, medical appointments, work, job interviews and other essential destinations, helping them focus on long-term goals rather than immediate transportation needs. 

Pivot clients can join the Climb Ride program by meeting with EMBARK's mobility programs coordinator for an orientation. The initiative aims to remove transportation obstacles for youth. 

"EMBARK’S Climb Ride has been an invaluable program, removing barriers for clients as they transition to a better future,” Pivot’s TLP Director Janeal Jones said. “It provides them the freedom to access employment, education and mental health resources without feeling like a burden. Additionally, it enables them to save money, contributing to their goal of living independently." 

A grant from the Arnall Family Foundation funds the project, with support from EMBARK's Mobility Management Division and the Oklahoma Mobility Institute. 

“Climb Ride has been an absolute game-changer for me,” a program participant said. “The flexibility and reliability ensure that I’m never late to work, allowing me to focus on my job without the stress of transportation barriers. This program has opened doors to better-paying opportunities and has truly empowered me in my career journey. The commitment they show to helping individuals succeed is remarkable, and I am beyond grateful for their support.” 

The Pivot-EMBARK partnership began in 2023 to address transportation barriers for youth facing housing instability. The program started with a small group to test feasibility, using Pivot's Transitional Living Program participants as the pilot group.

The pilot program launched with 10 participants in October 2024 and expanded in December 2024 to include all eligible Pivot youth. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants highlighting increased independence and access to essential services.