On Saturday, December 14, 2024, our community came together at The Love Building on Grand River Avenue for a day centered on access, education, and safe cycling. This Youth Bike Giveaways and Safety Workshop is an event designed to remove barriers and empower Detroit’s young riders with both bikes and knowledge. The event focused on more than just putting kids on bikes. It was also about building confidence, teaching life skills, and creating safer streets through education.
What Happened Behind the Camera
Throughout the day, the space buzzed with energy as youth and families participated in hands-on activities that blended fun with learning:
- Free refurbished bikes were distributed to youth, giving many their first opportunity to own a reliable bicycle.
- Hands-on repair workshops helped kids learn essential bike maintenance skills, from basic adjustments to understanding how their bikes work.
- Urban cycling safety workshops emphasized real-world riding skills, awareness, and confidence on city streets.
These safety sessions were led by Marco Speeks, Founder and Executive Director of Major Taylor Michigan Cycling Advocacy, alongside partners from MoGo and Back Alley Bikes. As a League Certified Cycling Instructor, Marco shared practical, experience-based guidance tailored to urban riding, helping young cyclists understand how to navigate traffic, intersections, and everyday riding scenarios safely.
Community-Powered Impact
This event was made possible through strong community partnerships. We’re grateful for the support of:
Together, we transformed a single Saturday into a meaningful investment in youth mobility, safety, and independence.
Why This Matters
Access to a bike can mean freedom, opportunity, and connection for young people. Pairing that access with education ensures those opportunities are safe, sustainable, and empowering.
This behind-the-scenes look offers a glimpse into the care, collaboration, and community spirit that drive our work. It’s not just about bikes. It’s about building a healthier, more equitable future for Detroit, one rider at a time.
Watch the video, share the story, and help us keep the wheels turning.
