Earn-a-bike program targets city’s neediest kids

From the Chicago SunTimes

ALEX WILSON | Earn-a-bike program targets city’s neediest kids

There are the twice-monthly workshops reserved for women and transgender bicycle enthusiasts.

Then there is the intensive build-a-bike series.

And, finally, the centerpiece at West Town Bikes, 2418 W. North, is the youth earn-a-bike program that combines fixing recycled bikes, rider safety and nutrition classes for some of the city’s neediest kids. Complete the free course and and get a bike.

Alex Wilson founded the nonprofit West Town Bikes — where you’re more likely to find advice than bike parts.

“I’ve been working in bicycle advocacy for eight years,” said Wilson, 37. This year, he was given the Mayor’s Bicycle Advisory Council award, honoring West Town Bikes’ youth programs that are 20 strong and serve some 600 kids, ages 12 to 16, annually.

West Town is looking to expand programs geared toward the city’s neediest youths.

“The lower income you are, the less opportunity you have, and the less you’re going to be able to get out. Being able to show people [that] life is as accessible as riding a bike is really great. ”

Lisa Donovan