In the heart of Boulder, Colorado, Community Cycles, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making cycling accessible for all, is gearing up for its Annual Kids Holiday Bike Giveaway. This heartwarming event, scheduled for December 7th and 14th, aims to provide over 350 bicycles to children from low-income families. Jane Johnston, the Content and Membership Manager at Community Cycles, along with her colleague Sandee Cirian, are hard at work, rallying the community for support. 

Community Cycles has long been committed to increasing the use of bicycle-based transportation through a focus on accessibility, education, sustainability, and advocacy. “Our mission is driven by our love of cycling, our community, and our planet,” says Johnston. The organization works tirelessly to ensure everyone has the opportunity to ride, offering affordable bikes, classes, and DIY repair workshops. 

One of their most significant annual events is the Kids Holiday Bike Giveaway, where gently used bicycles are refurbished and gifted to children in need. “This event is one of the highlights of the year,” Johnston explains. “It’s amazing to see the joy on a child’s face when they receive their bike. For many, it’s their first time owning a bike, and it opens up a world of freedom and fun for them.” 

With the December giveaway fast approaching, Community Cycles is in urgent need of donations, particularly kids’ bikes in good condition. “We’re specifically looking for 16-inch bikes, which fit children aged 3 to 7, but all sizes are welcome,” Johnston notes. The organization collects bikes year-round at its Boulder location and refurbishes them for this and other giveaways throughout the year. 

Beyond bike donations, there are numerous ways for community members to get involved:

• Host a Bike Donation Drive: Community Cycles encourages families, schools, and businesses to organize bike collection events. “It’s a great way to involve the whole community and make a tangible difference,” Johnston says.

• Volunteer: The Kids Holiday Bike Giveaway is a massive operation, and volunteers are essential. Opportunities are available on both giveaway days, where volunteers can help distribute bikes, fit helmets, and ensure the safety of every bike.

• Monetary Donations: For those without bikes to donate, financial contributions go a long way in supporting Community Cycles’ mission. Donations help cover the costs of repairs, safety checks, and event logistics. Contributions can be made directly on the organization’s website.

Johnston and her team are passionate about making cycling a sustainable and affordable mode of transportation for all. “Biking improves lives physically, emotionally, and economically,” she says. As Boulder continues to grow as a bike-friendly city, the work of Community Cycles is more important than ever.

For more information on how to donate, volunteer, or get involved with Community Cycles, visit their website at www.communitycycles.org or drop by their shop at 2601 Spruce St., Suite B, Boulder. 

Together, we can make this holiday season a little brighter for kids across the city.

So, dust off that old bike, sign up to volunteer, or simply spread the word—because every pedal forward brings us closer to a stronger, more connected community.