By Heather Lusk
Local bike and running shop Endurance House recently collected a trailer full of used bikes plus helmets, clothing and tire rims to be donated to the not-for-profit Freewheelin’ Community Bikes. The materials will be reused to help Indianapolis youth aged 10-18 learn bike mechanics, riding and safety.
“It’s good timing, with national bike month (in May), Earth day, spring cleaning,” said Sarah Speicher, Endurance House’s Community Outreach Coordinator.
Donations from the Zionsville store on April 18 will be combined with those at Endurance House’s Fisher’s location collected on April 25.
“It’s neat because even if you have some things you think are trash, they can fix up those items,” said Speicher, who encourages donation of all equipment regardless of age.
“We’re trying to find ways to help those who might not have access to the equipment we have,” store owner Jay Miller said. “Hopefully it will be something that can continue in the future.”
Ryan Gibson and Brian Johnson, members of Dow AgroSciences Agrocyclists group, assisted with the collection. Last year’s collection was limited to Dow employees on the campus, so they were enthusiastic to partner with Endurance House and expand to a community event.
“Whenever we can find events and help the community at the same time, that’s win-win for everybody,” Miller said.
Endurance House will accept bikes for donation throughout the year on behalf of Freewheelin’ Community Bikes. They also accept used running shoes.
LEARN BIKE MAINTENANCE
With May being national bike month, Endurance House will host bike maintenance clinics at both of its retail locations. In Fishers, the clinic will be held at 3 p.m. May 9 and 6 p.m. May 13, with the Zionsville location hosting clinics at 6 p.m. May 7 and 11 a.m. May 9. The event will provide an informal opportunity to learn basic bicycle needs such as changing a tire, plus learn basic bike safety.
