The Topeka Community Cycle Project is a non-profit that was started about 5 years ago. It is near 5th and Kansas Avenue, downtown. Unlike some other non-profits, it runs entirely on volunteering and donations. People donate used bikes, parts, and donations to continue the shop’s success. Anyone can come in and work on their bicycle, using the shop’s parts, or come in simply to volunteer. For every hour volunteered, you earn a shop credit, which can be used towards parts and even an “Earn-a-Bike” or EAB. EABs cost 5 volunteer hours. After volunteering 5 hours, you can go to the back and pick out a bicycle to work on and fix up (and then take home!)
What’s the catch? Why would people be giving away bikes left and right? The answer is, sustainability, health, and the love of bicycles. I know personally, I want more people to have access to bikes. It is a way to enjoy the outdoors, save money on gas, get exercise, and have fun! Plus, there are quite a few people that have a bicycle as their only mean of transportation. It is awesome to be able to support a diverse population like that, and help people who need it.
Bicycles are available to children under 13 for free, if they come in with a parent. There is a steady stream of bicycles coming in and out, constantly filling the needs of the many children that want to have a bicycle. Topeka Community Cycle Project is a great organization that does more than have open shop hours. It has a great mission and vision. Check it out at:
www.cycleproject.org
www.cycleproject.org
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