Chattanooga’s White Oak Bicycle Co-Op Looking for More Bike Donations!
Chattanooga, TN – The scenic routes and bike-friendly streets of Chattanooga may soon see even more two-wheeled enthusiasts, thanks to the hard work of the White Oak Bicycle Co-Op. This local non-profit organization is well on its way to achieving an impressive goal of distributing over 700 bikes in 2024. They’ve already made significant strides this year, giving away an astonishing 516 bikes to community organizations, including Metropolitan Ministries and Bridge Refugee Services, as well as local schools.
Making Biking Accessible to Everyone
According to Ben Richards, the Operations Director at White Oak Bicycle Co-Op, the mission is straightforward: ensure that everyone has access to a bike. “Bikes can just be a freedom,” Richards remarked, highlighting the independence that comes with bike ownership. This freedom means no longer relying on public transportation schedules that can be unpredictable, especially at night.
It’s no secret that riding a bike can lead to a healthier lifestyle. Cycling promotes activity and gets people moving, which is especially important in today’s fast-paced world. “We believe that having a bike can significantly impact public health,” Richards expressed. “It’s not just about getting from one place to another; it’s also about getting people outdoors and active.”
A Labor of Love
But getting bikes into the hands of those who need them requires more than just good intentions. Richards explained that there is a considerable amount of work involved in preparing the bikes for their new homes. “It takes hours to repair them,” he shared, acknowledging the countless hours of volunteer work that go into refurbishing and ensuring every bike is safe, clean, and road-ready.
“We want to provide something that our community can be proud to ride,” he added. It’s evident that the success of the White Oak Bicycle Co-Op hinges on the dedication of its volunteers, who share a love for cycling and community service. “It is really a community effort we rely on and are so grateful for all the volunteers,” Richards said appreciatively.
Support is Wanted and Needed
While the Co-Op is doing fantastic work, they’re eager to do even more. “We need bikes,” Richards urged community members. Whether you’ve got a bike gathering dust in your garage or know someone who does, your donations can make a difference. The organization has made it easy to donate by providing various donation locations listed on their website, where you can also learn more about their mission and activities.
Richards reassured potential donors that they cater to a wide demographic: “We give away bikes to everybody — children, adults, you name it.” With a vision to make biking safer in Chattanooga, the Co-Op is committed to making cycling accessible to all residents.
Join the Movement
So, if you’re looking to declutter and do some good, why not consider donating an unused bicycle? The White Oak Bicycle Co-Op is all about fostering a sense of community and getting more people on bikes. Let’s help make Chattanooga a more bike-friendly city, one pedal at a time!
For more information or to donate a bike, visit the White Oak Bicycle Co-Op website. Every little bit helps, and together we can make a huge difference in our community!
