Carefree Society Launches First-Ever Accessible Sightseeing Tour Service to Promote Inclusion and Community Engagement
New initiative aims to bring unforgettable local experiences to everyone — regardless of age, mobility, or ability.
Prince George, BC — Carefree Society, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing and supporting accessible and inclusive transportation, proudly announces the official launch of the Carefree Service, a fully accessible and inclusive sightseeing and activities tour service designed for people of all ages and abilities.
Beginning in November, the new service will operate two to three pre-scheduled trips per week, offering scenic, educational, and culturally rich tours of Prince George and area amenities, venues and events. The initiative reflects the organization’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for exploration and connection to those often excluded from traditional tourism experiences — including seniors / elders, people with disabilities, families with young children, and more.
“This is more than just a tour. It’s a movement toward community belonging and dignity,” says Christos Vardacostas, Executive Director of Carefree Society. “We believe everyone deserves to experience the beauty, history, and joy of our beautiful city and region — without limits.”
Tour Features Include:
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles and boarding
- Friendly direct support and facilitation of rider requirements
- Allows rider accompaniment
- Subsidized or free seats for low-income riders
- Destinations people want to get to
“Tours are something that have been greatly needed in Prince George, so it’s exciting to see
Carefree Society taking the lead,” says Carmen Herman, Interim CEO, Tourism Prince
George. “By making these tours accessible and community-based, they’re ensuring that
everyone can explore our community together.“
Jim J. says, “…with the attention of volunteers, [Carefree Society] has withstood…
cutbacks and stood up for the needs of individuals. We can be proud for being a part of
this.”
How the Community Can Get Involved:
- Ride: Book a tour for yourself, a loved one, or client, at
www.carefreesociety.org, 250-562-1397, or book@carefreesociety.org. - Donate: Help fund affordable and free tickets for community members in need
- Volunteer: Join our team as a tour assistant, storyteller, or access support helper
The program pilot is supported and made possible thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, generous contributions from sponsors such as Pacific Western Brewing, Centerra Gold, and Signtek Industries, who believe in the power of connection through shared experiences; and funding from the Regional District Fraser-Fort George.
Carefree Society is also grateful for the support of local community collaborators, including: Lheidli T’enneh, Prince George Council of Seniors, AimHi, Canadian Mental Health Association, BCSS PG, Prince George Brain Injured Group, Spinal Cord Injury BC, Tourism Prince George, and Prince George Transit.
Upcoming Launch Event:
Join us for a free launch celebration and demo ride on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025 at 10:30am, held at 2832 Queensway Street, Prince George. Media, community members, and prospective volunteers are invited to attend.
For media inquiries, interviews, or to schedule a ride-along, please contact:
Christos Vardacostas
Executive Director
250-562-1397
christos@carefreesociety.org
www.carefreesociety.org
https://www.facebook.com/61580284796934
https://www.linkedin.com/company/carefree-society/
About Carefree Society
Carefree Society is a non-profit society and charity dedicated to accessible and inclusive transportation. For over 50 years, we have worked to create inclusive, connected communities where everyone can participate fully — regardless of age, ability, or background. We strive to empower people through access. Carefree Society operates within the Regional District Fraser-Fort George, and is located on the unceded ancestral lands of the Lheidli T’enneh.
Additional Details
- All abilities requirements (universally accessible)
- Facilitation and accompaniment for riders with dedicated requirements encouraged
- Door-to-door pickup and drop off service
- Pre-scheduled trips
- Destinations – nature, recreation, culture, heritage, arts
- Promotes social inclusion and connection, reducing stigma, removing barriers to access
- Previously operated HandyDart (until August 2023)