# Major Taylor Michigan ## Posts - [Marco Speeks Discusses Major Taylor Day and Expanding His Legacy Nationwide](https://mtmca.org/marco-speeks-discusses-major-taylor-day-and-expanding-his-legacy-nationwide/): Marco Speeks, founder of Major Taylor Michigan Cycling Advocacy, has won the 2026 Trailblazer Award — and talked with the League of American Bicyclists about making Michigan the first state with an official Major Taylor Day. Michigan Made Cycling History. Marco Speeks Isn’t Done. When Mark “Marco” Speeks learned he’d won the 2026 Trailblazer Award from the Major Taylor International Cycling Alliance, his first thought went to the people who helped make it happen. “Governor Whitmer’s proclamation was a team effort,” he said. “This recognition belongs to everyone who rode with us.” That’s typical for Marco. As founder and executive […] - [MTMCA Wins National Award for Youth Empowerment](https://mtmca.org/mtmca-wins-national-award-for-youth-empowerment/): https://mtmca.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mtm-youth-empower-award-720-compressed.mp4 Major Taylor Michigan Cycling Advocacy has been named the 2026 Youth Empowerment Award recipient by the League of American Bicyclists — making us the first Michigan organization to win a national Advocacy or Education Award in the League’s 146-year history. On the evening of March 24, 2026, at the League’s National Bike Summit awards reception in Washington, D.C., our name was called. It was not just a moment for our organization. It was a moment for Detroit, for Michigan, and for every family we have ever served. What the Award Recognizes The Youth Empowerment Award is given by the […] - [Metro Times Featured Our Founder's Winter Cycling Story](https://mtmca.org/detroit-winter-cycling-marco-speeks-metro-times/): Metro Times recently featured our founder, Mark “Marco” Speeks, who’s proving that biking doesn’t have to stop when the temperature drops. The article shares Marco’s story as someone who bikes year-round in Detroit, even during the coldest months. It’s a great look at how cycling can work as regular transportation in Michigan, not just a warm-weather activity. Why Winter Cycling Works Many people assume bikes need to be put away once snow arrives. But Marco shows it’s totally doable with the right preparation and mindset. The piece covers practical tips for staying safe and comfortable on two wheels during winter […] - [Mobility Shaming: The Barrier Nobody’s Talking About](https://mtmca.org/mobility-shaming-the-barrier-nobodys-talking-about/): Have you ever felt judged for your mode of transportation? In a world where car ownership is often equated with personal worth, many individuals face mobility shaming—an insidious form of social judgment that undermines their dignity. From those who walk or bike to work to those who rely on public transit, millions are affected. This article explores the impact of mobility shaming, its economic and health consequences, and how we can challenge these harmful assumptions. Join us in reframing the conversation around transportation choices and celebrating the diverse ways we move through our communities. - [Major Taylor Michigan Cycling Advocacy Featured by the League of American Bicyclists](https://mtmca.org/major-taylor-michigan-cycling-advocacy-featured-by-the-league-of-american-bicyclists/): Celebrating Marco Speeks — LCI advocate breaking barriers in cycling equity. - [Michigan Makes History: Major Taylor Day Proclaimed](https://mtmca.org/michigan-makes-history-major-taylor-day-proclaimed/): Michigan becomes the first state with an official Major Taylor Day proclamation. - [Youth Earn A Bike Giveaway And Safety Workshop](https://mtmca.org/youth-earn-a-bike-giveaway-and-safety-workshop/): Major Taylor Bike Giveaway and Safety Workshop empowering riders with free gear and training. ## Pages - [Mission](https://mtmca.org/mission/): Our Vision for the Future of Cycling in Michigan Discover the passion and purpose that drive our mission, and explore our bold vision for a healthier, more connected future of cycling across Michigan. Our Mission As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we empower and uplift communities through cycling. We’re dedicated to making cycling a way of life that transforms lives, promotes health, and fosters a more sustainable and equitable future for all. We believe bicycles are powerful tools for personal growth, community building, and social change. A Message from Our Founder Cycling transforms lives and communities. At MTM, we honor Major […] - [Vision](https://mtmca.org/vision/): Our Vision Building A Better Michigan By BIke We envision a future where cycling is more than transportation-it’s a pathway to healthier lives, stronger communities, and a more sustainable Michigan. Our Vision We envision a Michigan where cycling is seamlessly integrated into daily life. A state where: Bicycles are embraced: Roads, paths, and communities are designed to prioritize the needs of cyclists. Equity is achieved: Cycling serves as a catalyst for economic opportunity, improved health outcomes, and greater social mobility for all. Sustainability thrives: Reduced carbon emissions and a healthier environment result from widespread adoption of cycling. Board of Directors […] - [David Bonner](https://mtmca.org/david-bonner/): David Bonner Board Title: Board Member David Sheldon Bonner is a Board Member of Major Taylor Michigan Cycling Advocacy and founder of Metro 313 Cyclones. A Detroit native, he brings more than three decades of experience in finance, investment management, and accounting, with career roles spanning J.P. Morgan Chase, Harris Bank, A.G. Edwards, and Madonna University, where he has taught corporate finance at the undergraduate and graduate levels since 2014. He holds an MBA in Finance from St. Xavier University and is a Doctor of Business Administration candidate. David is a United States Navy veteran. He is drawn to MTMCA’s […] - [Merch](https://mtmca.org/merch/): REP THE RIDE. SUPPORT THE MISSION. Every purchase helps us empower communities through cycling advocacy, education, and youth programs across Michigan. SHOP MERCH NOW You’ll be redirected to our official store to complete your purchase. QUALITY GEAR Premium apparel and accessories you’ll love to wear and use. SUPPORT LOCAL Proceeds support MTM’s programs and community initiatives. RIDE WITH PRIDE Show your support for safer streets and stronger communities. SHOP OUR COLLECTION Apparel & Accessories High-quality gear for cyclists, supporters, and everyone who believes in a safer, healthier Michigan. Apparel Men’s T-Shirts Apparel Sleeveless Apparel Sweatshirts Apparel Women’s T-Shirts Apparel Hoodies […] - [Board Of Directors](https://mtmca.org/board-of-directors/): Board Of Directors Dedicated leaders guiding our mission to create safer,healthier, and more inclusive communities through cycling advocacy. Jason Gilmore President Read Bio Stephen Merz Vice President Read Bio Carolann Morykwas Treasurer Read Bio Mark “Marco” Speeks Executive Director Read Bio Tim Springer Board Member Read Bio Detroit City Council Member – Scott Benson Board Member Read Bio David Bonner Board Member Read Bio - [Events](https://mtmca.org/events/): Upcoming Community Events Built for Families, Learning, and Fun Join upcoming educational and community-focused experiences hosted by MTMCA and partners across Michigan. Register Now Safe & Inclusive Prioritizing safety and inclusion for all. Family Focused Events designed for kids and their families. Hands-On Learning Interactive experiences that inspire. OUR SPONSORS Thank you to Our Sponsors Your support helps us empower communities and build a safer, healthier future for Michigan families. PRESENTING SPONSOR SAFETY CHAMPIONS COMMUNITY MILE SPONSORS THE FAMILY OF JEFF SANDERS Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us to learn more about sponsorship opportunities. - [Programs](https://mtmca.org/programs/): Our Programs Bikes 4 Employees Empowering Detroit residents with bikes, gear & support to improve job access, health, and financial wellness through sustainable mobility. Bicycle Safety Town Bicycle Safety Town: hands-on cycling safety education preparing Detroit youth for safe streets, honoring Major Taylor’s legacy. Bike Bus on Joe Louis Greenway Safe, supervised group rides bringing Detroit students to school along the city’s signature greenway. Stride and Glide A Detroit Public Schools cycling program building spatial reasoning, problem-solving skills, and independence. Operation: Rack and Roll Installing bicycle racks and infrastructure at Detroit Public Schools along the Joe Louis Greenway corridor to […] - [Scott Benson](https://mtmca.org/scott-benson/): Scott Benson Board Title: Board Member Legislator, Advocate, and Everyday Cyclist City Council Member Benson is a program champion whose legislative platform aligns directly with MTMCA. As the elected City Council Member for Detroit’s 3rd District since January 2014, Scott brings more than a decade of municipal governance experience to the board. His primary areas of expertise include urban planning, economic development, public safety, neighborhood revitalization, and community investment. He has helped secure over $500 million in business investment for the 3rd District. City Council Member Benson is a frequent bike rider, giving him a firsthand understanding of cycling. That […] - [Tim Springer](https://mtmca.org/tim-springer/): Tim Springer Board Title: Board Member Two Cities, One Mission: Cycling as Climate Action and Social Change Tim values bicycle transportation as climate change mitigation and social change. Until 2020, he was car-free except in 1984 when he owned a VW bug that burned up. He spearheaded the creation of the Midtown Greenway in Minneapolis, a bicycle highway used by thousands daily, and Bikes 4 Employees, a program providing high-quality bicycles to transportation-insecure Detroiters. He splits his time between Detroit and Minneapolis, and skis in Colorado as much as he can. Other volunteer work: National Association of Black and White […] - [Mark Speeks](https://mtmca.org/mark-speeks/): Mark Speeks Board Title: Founder/Executive Director The Visionary Behind Major Taylor Michigan Cycling Advocacy Mark “Marco” Speeks is the Founder and Executive Director of Major Taylor Michigan Cycling Advocacy. He leads the strategic direction of MTM with a focus on economic development, transportation advocacy, community organization, and cycling education. Marco designed the organization’s Four Spokes framework and oversees Bikes 4 Employees, a revolving loan fund that connects transportation-insecure Detroit workers with quality bicycles through employer payroll deductions. Each MTM program is built on the principle that a bicycle is a tool for economic mobility and workforce access. When Marco is […] - [Shubhum Sidhar](https://mtmca.org/shubhum-sidhar/): Shubhum Sidhar Board Title: Secretary Data-Driven. Community-Focused. Always on the Move Shubhum Sidhar brings a strategic “product mindset” to the Board, helping the team build better initiatives for the cycling community. When he’s not deconstructing data or advocating for safer streets, you’ll find him outside—likely hiking, playing sports, or riffing on his trumpet to some jazz. He’s just as comfortable on a bike as he is in a spreadsheet, and he’s thrilled to help gear up the local cycling scene. - [Carolann Morykwas](https://mtmca.org/carolann-morykwas/): Carolann Morykwas Board Title: Treasurer 28 Years of Banking. Now Investing in What Matters Most Carolann Morykwas is the Treasurer and Administrator and is a charter member of the Board of Directors. She handles all financial matters and policies as well as taxes, state and federal government filings, and general administration for the organization. She has an MBA and was a Commercial Banker for 28 years in the Detroit Metro Area, primarily for Chase Bank and its predecessors. Since her retirement, she has volunteered with non-profits. MTMCA has especially appealed to her because she likes working with a diverse community […] - [Stephen Merz](https://mtmca.org/stephen-merz/): Stephen Merz Board Title: Vice President From the Bike Shop to the Community: A Passion for People and Pedals Stephen Merz is the store manager of a Trek Direct Owned Store located in Grosse Pointe Woods. He and his wife are natives and after living in several bicycle friendly cities around the U.S. they have settled in the suburbs of Detroit to raise their family.  He is actively participating in multiple community initiatives for MTMCA as well as a Neighborhood Club Instructor.  He and Marco connected over their passion for bicycles as not only a mode of transportation but a […] - [Jason Gilmore](https://mtmca.org/jason-gilmore/): Jason Gilmore Board Title: Board PresidentProfessional Role: Senior Regional Director of Advancement, College of Engineering, University of Michigan What do you do and your main area of expertise? Professionally, I work in philanthropy and advancement at the University of Michigan’s College of Engineering, where I build relationships with alumni and supporters who want to invest in education, student success, and research. My work focuses on connecting people’s values and interests with meaningful opportunities to make an impact. That background translates well to nonprofit leadership, where relationship building, governance, and thoughtful strategy are essential. What experience do you have in doing […] - [News & Articles](https://mtmca.org/news-updates/) - [About](https://mtmca.org/about/): Our Vision for the Future of Cycling in Michigan Discover the passion and purpose that drive our mission, and explore our bold vision for a healthier, more connected future of cycling across Michigan. Our Mission As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we empower and uplift communities through cycling. We’re dedicated to making cycling a way of life that transforms lives, promotes health, and fosters a more sustainable and equitable future for all. We believe bicycles are powerful tools for personal growth, community building, and social change. A Message from Our Founder Cycling transforms lives and communities. At MTM, we honor Major […] - [Home](https://mtmca.org/): Empower. Uplift. Cycle. A bicycle is more than transport—it’s a tool for growth, community, and change. We are Major Taylor Michigan. We’re championing cycling for all Michiganders by building inclusive communities, advocating for safe infrastructure, and empowering riders across the state. Make a Donation Inspired by a Legacy of Excellence Inspired by the legacy of world champion cyclist Marshall “Major” Taylor, we are dedicated to breaking down barriers and making cycling in Michigan accessible for everyone. From our home base in Detroit, we work across the state to foster inclusive cycling communities, advocate for safer streets, and empower every rider […] ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/mtmca.org/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)