Neptune Township, NJ – RENEE WALKER, Community Action Program Manager, Affordable Housing Alliance
“I want to share a personal story that illustrates why I’m passionate about the work we do at the Affordable Housing Alliance.
Years ago, I didn’t own a car or have a driver’s license. I walked to work at Marshalls in all weather conditions. I was limited to opportunities within walking distance. The long commutes and unpredictable weather conditions made it challenging to explore other employment options or expand my professional horizons.
What I didn’t realize then was how profoundly these transportation limitations were affecting my opportunities. I remained in the same position for seven years, partly due to geographic constraints and limited mobility options. The psychological impact was significant—I felt restricted by location rather than empowered to pursue my full potential.
Once I obtained multiple transportation options, everything shifted. I could access employment opportunities across county lines. My career began to expand in ways I hadn’t previously imagined possible.
This experience taught me that transportation isn’t merely about moving from one location to another—it’s fundamentally about access to opportunity, economic mobility, and personal agency.
Today, as AHA’s Community Action Program Manager, I have the privilege of addressing these systemic barriers. That’s why I’m particularly proud to announce our expanded Supplemental Transportation Services, now offering NJ TRANSIT passes. Along with our current EZ Ride ridesharing program for employment, education, healthcare, and essential needs, Monmouth County residents now have more options.
Thank you to Community Action Partnership NJ for their partnership in making this program possible.
When we remove transportation barriers, we don’t just help individuals get from Point A to Point B—we help them access opportunity, and freedom.