You’ve probably heard us mention Champions a lot in the past few months. We’re kind of their biggest fans, but what/who are Champions and why do we keep talking about them?
No – it’s not a hot new buzzword, but yes – it is a great program in Arlington County that recognizes companies, property managers, and residential properties for their transportation programs. However, it’s not just about being famous – Champions is a program that works to reduce single occupancy vehicles on the road in Arlington County and we aren’t here to just say, “Stop driving.”
Rather, the crew here at Arlington Transportation Partners (ATP) understand what it means to be multimodal. Sometimes, we can’t make a change because we simply don’t know what’s possible – ATP has you covered with custom commute plans, plus free maps so you know exactly where you’re going and HOW you’re going to get there…minus the car.
Yeah, yeah – so we help you commute better, but what about Champions? Let’s start from the very beginning, which we hear is a very good place to start.
What is Champions?
Champions is an ATP-designed program that recognizes businesses, residential properties and real estate developers in Arlington County that have shown a commitment to encouraging the use of sustainable transportation modes such as public transit, ridesharing, biking and walking.
How does Champions work?
There are 4 different levels in Champions and depending on what you are already doing, you will start off as either a Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum Level Champion. Each level has its own set of rewards and recognition. The more committed and engaged you are as a Champion, the more recognition and rewards you receive. Everyone can be a Champion, ATP can help you get there!
How much does Champions cost?
As with all of ATP’s services, it’s FREE to participate in Champions! There are some opportunities within Champions that might have some cost associated with them, such as purchasing corporate Capital Bikeshare memberships or providing a transportation subsidy to employees, but these are not required. Every ATP business development manager will work with you to ensure you are doing what works best for your company.
What do I have to do?
First thing first – meet with your ATP representative! He or she will show you all the activities possible within each level and help determine where you will start. Then, based on your goals, you can choose additional activities to help you move up levels, encourage health and wellness, save your company money or help you show off your community involvement.
How does Champions help me?
It earns you recognition and shows your community, as well as employees and tenants, that you care about making Arlington a better place to live, work and play. We feature our Champions on our blog, social media, newsletters and also work with 3rd party publications like Washington Business Journal
As a Champion, you will also be invited to exclusive networking events with other like-minded businesses in Arlington County.
When does Champions end?
Champions is a 1 year program with an informal re-enrollment process. Simply put, your rep will contact you to confirm you’d like to participate again – receiving continued recognition and invitations to special Champion networking events. Additionally, at the end of that year, ATP will review the accomplishment of all the Champions and toast you at an annual event.
What happens if we don’t achieve our goals?
Sometimes, unexpected demands pull us away from even our most desired goals. If this happens, let your ATP representative know! We understand things change, so we’ll be there to support you and redefine goals that better suit your business or property.
What is Guaranteed Ride Home? How does it work?
Guaranteed Ride Home offers 4 free rides a year from your office to your home through a program operated by Commuter Connections. Think you live too far away? Think again! The territory the program covers extends into Pennsylvania and even Richmond, VA. Read the FAQs on our recent blog post.
How do I enroll in Champions?
Email ATP at solutions@transpartners.com or call us at 703.247.2417 to set up a meeting with your ATP rep now!
