Auto-Relief publishes a newsletter eight times a year (see sample Auto-Relief newsletter), advises the public and local government on transportation policy in Eugene, and has initiated a program encouraging increased facilities for bicyclists.

The newsletter consists of local news, a calendar of events, and stories and suggestions for readers who want to become less car dependent. It is put together by volunteers each month, and some of the printing has been donated by a local print shop. Volunteers distribute it free of charge around Eugene, and coordinate mailing copies to Auto-Relief members. A grant from the Bicycle Federation of America for $1,000 is being used for other newsletter expenses over the year.

Another project of Auto-Relief, Bikes are Good Business, is modeled after a similar program begun by a bicycle group in Santa Cruz, California. The program gives public recognition to businesses that encourage their employees and customers to ride bikes. Auto-Relief has formed a partnership with the City of Eugene to further the program. As of August 1993 four businesses had been recognized by the program.

Auto-Relief volunteers are also active in meetings with the City of Eugene. The City recently disbanded its Bicycle Advisory Committee, so Auto-Relief has by default become the primary connection between government and the cycling public. A series of public discussions, facilitated by Auto-Relief and known as the Transportation Roundtable, is a major forum for these issues. The mayor of Eugene recently spoke at a Roundtable and answered questions from the audience about the city's transportation policies.

To encourage public involvement in cycling as transportation and in encouraging the city to provide facilities for cyclists as part of a balanced transportation system, Auto-Relief has been involved in a number of public education programs. During the 1992-1993 school year, volunteers visited elementary, middle and high schools in the area. Diverse load-carrying and non-traditional bicycles were displayed, and educational materials were handed out and discussed. One group of middle school students later presented the City Council with information provided during an Auto-Relief visit to their class. A formal program of school visits is being planned for this year. Other public education programs have included research and publication on transportation issues affecting the city. One such project resulted in a flyer that was mailed to city officials, handed out at local events, and used by other transport-related education groups.

Members help support Auto-Relief. There are currently about 45 members in Auto-Relief who have paid $15 each for their membership. Members receive the newsletter and notice of events. Membership is for fundraising purposes only: all Auto-Relief events and activities are open to the public.

The group began in November 1992 when the Rain Umbrella board felt the need for such a group in Eugene. $1,500 was donated by a private individual for office supplies, equipment was loaned to the office, and a computer was donated to get the project off the ground. In April of 1993 Auto-Relief received a grant for $1,000 from the Bicycle Federation of America to cover printing costs of the monthly newsletter and rent for the office. The office space is paid for in part by the Rain Umbrella and in part by donations from the landlord. Monies for office rental in the future will come from donations, grants, and Auto Relief membership.

Volunteers help with production of the newsletter and other tasks such as data entry, office management, membership, volunteer and intern coordination. Volunteers also help organize and participate in Transportation Roundtables and school visits.