The Joy of a New Bicycle: Bikes for Kids 2017
It was a love affair on Saturday, July 22nd. One hundred thirty-two lonely bicycles found their match in the form of overjoyed children anxious for their first ride.
There were many countries and languages represented, but these bicycles transcended all barriers. No amount of economic or social disparity mattered on this Saturday. In turn, our community gained new riders, and we at the Community Cycling Center are once again humbled by the experience.
Bikes for Kids was made possible through a generous partnership with Fred Meyer and the Portland Trail Blazers. Here is our community impact by the numbers:
- Kids registered: 175
- Bikes in the hands of kids: 132
- Bikes built: 200
- Total volunteers: 130
- Total volunteer shifts: 180
- Volunteer hours for the week: 720
- Partner referring organizations: 30
- Languages represented: 5
Volunteers from Fred Meyer and the Portland Trail Blazers, along with community members, helped ensure the children from low-income households received safety education, helmets, and a shiny brand-new bike, carefully assembled, mechanically checked, and custom-fitted to each kid.
“The Community Cycling Center provided me the opportunity to take ownership of my volunteerism. I wasn’t just standing around and smiling and waving,” said volunteer Joanne Shepard. “I was in charge of making sure these kids learned about bike safety. It had real meaning and direct action.”
You can join us at our next bike giveaway – our annual Holiday Bike Drive in December! Contact Community Cycling Center’s Volunteer & Event Manager, Hanna Davis, at hanna@communitycyclingcenter.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities.