Every year, the World Day of Remembrance serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost and forever altered by traffic crashes. On November 16th, the Massachusetts Vision Zero Coalition and advocates across the state will observe the World Day of Remembrance to commemorate victims of traffic crashes. In 2025 alone, almost 1,800 individuals in Massachusetts have been killed or seriously injured in preventable crashes. Please join us in honoring their memories by advocating for safer streets for everyone.

Communities throughout Massachusetts are eligible for World Day of Remembrance 2025 Mini-Grants for help hosting events. Thanks to the Charlie Proctor Memorial Fund, these mini-grants of $50-$300 are intended to empower and support local advocates to participate in this meaningful day. Communities might host a memorial gathering, a community awareness event, or a reflective ceremony, and are welcome to reach out to MassBike for help with planning.

What Events Are Eligible?

An event is eligible for a mini-grant if it is held in the honor of victims of road traffic crashes in Massachusetts. The event must occur on November 16th or within the month of November, 2025. The event must be open to the public, and does not need to specifically memorialize bicyclist incidents.

What Does the Grant Cover?

Grant funds can be used for various event-related expenses, including but not limited to:

• Food and refreshments
• Printing and promotional materials
• Translation services
• Childcare for meetings/events
• Venue or space rental
• Audiovisual equipment rental

Grant Requirements

To qualify for the mini-grant, applicants must:

• Use the funds for a World Day of Remembrance event in November 2025
• Submit an expense form with receipts demonstrating how the grant was used
• Provide photos or videos of the event
• Offer a testimonial about the event for MassBike's recap
• Agree to be included in a press release regarding the mini-grants and World Day of Remembrance

Timeline and Application Process

Applications are open now, with grants awarded on a rolling basis until the final deadline of November 3rd at 5:00 PM. Interested parties can apply via our Google Form Application.

Join us in honoring the lives affected by traffic crashes and promoting safer roads for all. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our communities and advocate for safer roadways for all.

Thank you to the Charlie Proctor Memorial Fund for providing financial support to these community events.

Day of Action for Safer Roadways

On a weekday in November, the Vision Zero Coalition, including new coalition member Massachusetts Families for Safe Streets, will gather at the Massachusetts State House to raise awareness about World Day of Remembrance and the urgent need for stronger action on traffic safety across the Commonwealth. This is a critical opportunity to engage with our elected officials and push for change that can make our roads safer for everyone.

There are two ways to participate:

1. Join us at the State House in Boston for a day of action
2. Set up a meeting with your local legislators at a time that works for you (ideally ahead of World Day of Remembrance on November 16th)

We need your help to build relationships with your local representatives and urge them to prioritize traffic safety. 

Fill out our Interest Form to receive more information

Watch the Webinar

If You’re Joining Us at the State House

• Time & location TBD!
• A member of the MassBike staff or the Vision Zero Coalition will be on hand to check you in.
• Plan to spend a few hours visiting legislative offices and dropping off educational materials, which we will provide.

If You’re Meeting with Your Legislators Locally

• Contact your local legislative office to request a 20-minute meeting with your legislator or aide that supports transportation issues.
• We’ll send you World Day of Remembrance materials to share with your legislators closer to the event.
• Share your personal story about why traffic safety matters to you.
• If there’s a World Day of Remembrance event happening in your district, invite your legislator to attend.

At MassBike, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our staff is available to help you coordinate meetings, provide materials, and ensure your voice is heard. Once you sign up, we’ll follow up with the next steps.

Fill out our Interest Form to let us know how you'll participate

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]. Your engagement is key to making our streets safer and saving lives.