Norte impacts our Northern Michigan communities in a healthy, fun, and encouraging way. The programs get kids on bikes, help build confidence and skill, and make the urban riding more doable and less intimidating for many groups of people. The adventures of riding through the woods together on mountain bikes is unlike many experiences kids would otherwise have with more traditional sports. And, the myriad events, clinics, and gatherings offered by Norte build a happy community for the biking enthusiastic and beyond!
Both of my daughters have participated in Norte from the time they were able to start riding balance bikes. They have both benefited greatly with boosts in confidence and independence. This is a great organization that does so much to build up our community and foster outdoor activity in our youth.
Our family has been with Norte since its beginning days and have loved every bit of it. Our daughter has used multiple library bikes, learned to ride a pedal bike at age 3, and has enjoyed multiple balance bike events. I was a seasonal coach while being a stay at home mom, and it was a wonderful outlet to the community during that time. We are thrilled to be a part of this organization and are so thankful to have it in our community.
As a donor and coach, I'm proud to support Norte. The positive impact their cycling programs have on the physical and mental health of the kids in the region is immense. We need to put these kids in a situation where they can grow up to have the work ethic, self-esteem, and perseverance that come with being a productive adult. Norte plays a big role in making this possible.
My daughters grew up riding with Norte. The gained friends, confidence, and a deeper connection to our community. One daughter eventually became an assistant coach. She was able to develop her leadership skills in a very unique setting. I am also thankful for the numerous encouragement events they host such as community slow roll bike rides and the free bike valet at the farmers market. Keep going Norte!