My Nonprofit Reviews

Cycling has always been an important part of my life. I still remember my first bike and the independence that it represented. I raced in college and rode the wave popularity as mountain biking developed. 40 years later, I still enjoy the social and physical aspects of the sport.

I first became aware of World Bicycle Relief when a cycling friend asked me to support a charity ride. The more that I learned about the organization, the more I understood about the true mission. What WBR was offering was not just a bike but rather the "Mobility" that the bike provided. Mobility=Education; Mobility=Health Care; Mobility=Social Enterprise.

In 2015 my wife Mary and I traveled to Africa with WBR and saw first hand how this simple machine could change lives. We distributed new bikes to students who previously had to walk long distances to school. We rode with Health Care workers who could now deliver aids care to more patients. We visited with farmers who could now get more milk to the co-op or produce to market.

We were also impressed by the way WBR partners with local groups and individuals to insure program longevity. Village leaders, parents and school officials evaluate the need and choose recipients. The bikes are purposely designed for the harsh environment and assembled in Africa. Mechanics are trained and equipped with tools to repair the bikes. Service depots are established to support the parts needs of the mechanics.

As a donor, it is easy to see how the gift of a bicycle sends ripples of goodwill out through the community. My wife and I give because we believe in the WBR mission and have seen the multiplying effect of our gift. We can think of no other giving opportunity that can provide more impact to the recipients and their community.