Pedal It Forward NWA and First Security Bank are seeking donations of gently used bikes, new helmets or monetary gifts.
Pedal It Forward NWA has a simple mission, they want to increase the number of people using bicycles for health, transportation or recreation by partnering with local organizations to distribute free or low-cost bikes to those who can’t afford them. To carry out this mission, they collect used bikes, fix them up, then distribute them to those in need through a network of partner organizations, schools, and shelters called “Pedal Partners”.
Summer Bike Drive
Recently, in partnership with First Security Bank, they announced a summer bike drive that will take place during the months of June and July. For those interested, gently used bikes are being accepted at the Pedal It Forward locations in both Bentonville or Rogers, or at any First Security Bank location in the region.
Pedal It Forward was started by a group of local cyclists who love riding, enjoy the beauty of NW Arkansas, and wanted to find a way to help everyone feel the joy and freedom that comes with having a bike. A call went out for bike donations and the community responded with enthusiasm that has continued to this day. Today, their volunteers collect and refurbish thousands of bikes which are then distributed to partner organizations that work with underserved populations. Since 2014, the volunteers at Pedal It Forward NWA have worked to distribute over 2,500 bicycles throughout Northwest Arkansas to veterans, children, and others in need.
Building & Repairing Bikes
If you are interested in volunteering, you can sign up for their bike building and maintenance days which take place at their shop each Monday and Saturday at both locations.
Building & Repairing Bikes
Lastly, though bike recipients are primarily identified by their network Pedal Partners (health clinics, agencies, non-profit organizations, and schools), the public can also submit requests for bikes by filling out their General Public Bicycle Order Form.