Wheels of Hope is a remarkable community initiative in Anne Arundel County that’s making a real difference by providing Hope Bikes to adults and children in need. This collaborative program brings together the Anne Arundel County Food Bank, Anne Arundel Medical Center, Bicycle Advocates for Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (BikeAAA), the Anne Arundel County Police, and Bike Doctor Crofton, all working towards a common goal: offering a fresh start through the simple gift of a bicycle.
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The Wheels of Hope program understands that a bike is more than just a mode of transport. It’s a key to unlocking opportunities. They provide hope bikes to individuals facing various challenges, including adults transitioning from sober living facilities as they seek employment and education, formerly incarcerated individuals re-entering society, at-risk youth completing crucial programs, and high school athletes struggling with transportation to practices. The program also extends its reach to low-income communities, ensuring children, including those learning English as a second language, also benefit from the freedom and joy of cycling. Each hope bike recipient also receives a helmet, ensuring safety is a priority, and accessories like lights and locks are provided as needed. The core mission is to offer healthy transportation and recreation to community members who need it most, all while championing environmental responsibility by repurposing and reducing waste. The program operates from the Anne Arundel County Food Bank in Crownsville, MD, serving as a hub for this impactful work.
BikeAAA’s dedication to the Wheels of Hope program received significant recognition in February 2021 when they were awarded the Park Tool Community Grant. Out of over 300 applicants, BikeAAA was selected as one of only ten winners. This prestigious grant included essential tools and equipment like two Park Tool Repair Stands, a Park Tool Professional Mechanic Tool Kit, aprons, and repair manuals, significantly boosting their capacity to refurbish donated bikes. Adding to this honor, BikeAAA was further distinguished as the recipient of the 2021 Park Tool President’s Choice Award, accompanied by an additional $1,000 in Park Tool equipment. This award underscores the dedication and effectiveness of Wheels of Hope in the community bike program sector. You can read more about this recognition at Park Tool announces BikeAAA as winner of their 2021 Community Grant Program and the President’s Choice Award.
Get Involved: Volunteer, Donate, and Support Hope Bikes
The Wheels of Hope program thrives on community support and offers several avenues for individuals to contribute.
Become a Bike Repair Volunteer: Skilled bike mechanics are always needed! If you have bike repair expertise and can spare time during weekdays, occasional Saturday mornings, or even work from home, your help is invaluable. Volunteer tasks involve inspecting, repairing, and refurbishing donated bikes, ensuring they are safe and ready for their new owners. If you’re interested in lending your skills to hope bikes, please email [email protected] with details about your repair skills and availability.
Financial Contributions: Monetary donations are crucial for sustaining the program. Your tax-deductible financial contributions directly support the purchase of essential spare parts, repair equipment, and safety helmets. To donate, please make checks payable to “BikeAAA Wheels of Hope” and mail them to P.O. Box 208, Arnold, MD 21012. Alternatively, you can easily donate online by visiting DONATE ONLINE and scrolling down to the “Wheels of Hope Donation” section. Every dollar helps provide hope bikes and essential gear to those in need.
Donate Bikes in Good Condition: Do you have a gently used adult or kids’ bike gathering dust? Wheels of Hope welcomes bike donations in good working condition. For guidelines on suitable donor bikes and parts, please refer to the Donor Bikes document. Bikes meeting the criteria can be dropped off at the Anne Arundel County Food Bank (120 Marbury Dr., Crownsville, MD 21032) on weekdays between 1 PM and 3 PM. It’s always a good idea to check the AACFB Website for holiday closures or any schedule changes before dropping off your donation. If you require a morning drop-off between 9 AM and noon or need to arrange alternative transport, please contact the team at [email protected] to coordinate.
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For any questions or further information about the Wheels of Hope program and how you can support hope bikes, please don’t hesitate to email [email protected].
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The impact of hope bikes is best expressed through the words of those who have received them:
“I more than appreciate what you have done for me. You brought youth back into my eyes….a feeling I haven’t had in such a long time buried under the false feelings that came with my drug addiction.”
“Thank you so much for the bike!! It’s amazing and I’m glad there are people out there that are so kind and helpful to the needy! This bike reminded me of a long lost passion and will help me get to meetings and work. Much love!!”
By supporting Wheels of Hope, you’re not just donating a bike; you’re giving someone the gift of mobility, independence, and hope.
