Last year the SSJ Neighborhood Network joined “TRIPS FOR KIDS,” a national nonprofit with local chapters that provide youth development programs. The SSJNN Bike Program is now its Erie Chapter. This is a natural match. The TRIPS FOR KIDS vision is to support a world where kids from all walks of life have the opportunity to know the joy of riding a bike and the freedom to explore the natural world on two wheels.

So, what is offered at the SSJNN Bike Program? We offer an Earn-a-Bike Program for Youth called Pedal Mettle, an Earn-a-Bike Program for Adults, a ReCyclery Bike Shop  where people can come to repair their bikes using our tools and the expertise of volunteers  and Discovery Trail Rides (trips with kids to explore Erie and surrounding areas). Last year we had 45 youth enrolled in the program and gave away more than 145 bikes.

We are in the process now of gearing up for the next season with eight volunteers who come each week to repair donated bikes.