The Bike Project – Volunteers

Calling all bike enthusiasts, bike riders, individuals with mechanical skills, or anyone with some spare time! The Bike Project is a non-profit, charitable organization of bicycle users whose mission is to educate and empower the community by providing a welcoming space to learn about bicycle repair, engage in maintenance practices, and promote safe operation through outreach and advocacy activities. Further, their website states that they “offer a non-commercial DIY space, tools, and a community to repair bikes, share knowledge, hold classes, and advocate for bikes in Urbana-Champaign.” How amazing! They offer many activities for bike riders and even offer a program where you can build your own bike to get a discounted bike. Not only will you feel accomplished, but you earned a discount on an environmentally friendly form of transportation. The Bike Project is seeking volunteers for many different tasks. Individuals with mechanical skills, or wanting to develop mechanical knowledge are welcome. There will be experienced volunteers who can train those who are interested in mechanical tasks or knowledge. This sounds like a win-win; give a little, learn a little, so that I never have to worry about getting stuck somewhere and not knowing how to fix the problem myself. BUT, don’t worry! If you aren’t interested in mechanics but you still enjoy anything related to bikes, or are looking for a change in your daily activities, The Bike Project needs plenty of help with other things such as answering questions or checking out purchases. The Bike Project needs volunteers to help staff open hours on Wednesday evenings (6:30 – 9:00 pm) and Saturday & Sunday afternoons (2:00 – 5:00 pm). The Bike Project’s Facebook page invites description is as follows:

“The Bike Project is in need of volunteers who can commit to staffing every week or every other week. Staffers open the shop, assist visitors, teach members, and handle sales. It's also one of the best ways to learn bike repair! Inexperienced mechanics are welcome to join us and learn from our more experienced staff. Our staff orientation will get those interested in staffing up to speed so that they can help staff hours. We will go over the basic things that you can do even without a lot of mechanical experience but are willing to make a regular commitment. New volunteers are encouraged to stay afterward and help out during regular hours from 6:30-9pm, but this is not required.”

There is a volunteer orientation Thursday, February 28, 2019, at 5:30PM-6:30PM; however, you do not have to attend this to be able to volunteer.

The Bike Project is an amazing organization, and it keeps on cycling with the help of its volunteers. If you are interested feel free to click the link below to access more information about the organization and future volunteer events. The link will bring you to the Facebook page with the orientation date for volunteers.

Volunteering is always a good idea, and it brings many benefits and worthwhile experiences. I urge you to volunteer with The Bike Project, and, to hop on a bike every now and then.

By: Erin Nadel

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