While most kids have fond memories of riding their bicycles, statistics show that thousands of kids head to the emergency room every year due to bike accidents. Unsafe practices are often the cause.
Recognizing this, YouthQuest, an afterschool program managed by the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce will host the first of two Bike Rodeos on September 26, from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. The event will be held on the grounds of YouthQuest offices at 4100 Pier North Blvd. in Flint. The second Bike Rodeo will be held on October 11 at YouthQuest offices.
In preparation, YouthQuest is calling for bicycle donations – new or used, for boys and girls. Bikes are needed for children ages 5-12 years old, from two-wheelers to bikes with training wheels.
The event supports one of YouthQuest’s key focus areas which is physical fitness and healthy behaviors. The event will consist of activities such as rodeo games, riding on bike courses, Craft, Treasure Hunt, and an informative bike safety station managed by the Genesys Health Foundation. In addition, Genesys will supply bike helmets to raffle off to students along with having a demonstration on bicycle safety.
The YouthQuest Bike Rodeos are supported by the Safe & Active Genesee for Everyone (SAGE) mini-grant program offered through the Crim Fitness Foundation. YouthQuest was one of five grantees awarded $1,000 for active living programs in Genesee County.
“We’re so excited to host the Bike Rodeo, because there’s nothing better than taking your bike out for a ride on a beautiful day” said Rhetta Hunyady, Vice President of Education & Training at the Flint & Genesee Chamber. “Not only will the kids have a great time, they will learn how to take precautions to ride safely.”
The Bike Rodeos will be held for over 2,000 students that attend YouthQuest. Donated bikes can be dropped off at YouthQuest offices or contact Meghan Slaght at 810.422.5904 or for additional information.
About YouthQuest
YouthQuest is a free, quality afterschool program for K-8 youth. The program is offered at 15 schools in five districts throughout Genesee County: Carman-Ainsworth, Flint, Lakeville, Mt. Morris and Montrose. It offers academic and enrichment activities that engage young minds at an early age. Research shows this approach improves students’ overall performance at school and also contributes to work-ready skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, critical and creative thinking, and healthy decision making.
About the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce
The Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce (www.flintandgenesee.org) is the voice of business and community advocacy in Genesee County. The Regional Chamber is over 100 years old, was established before the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and is a founding member of the United States Chamber of Commerce.
Two words describe the Regional Chamber as it enters its second century of service: collaboration and partnership. It is our goal to work with government, business, education and nonprofit organizations to support the growth and development of the community economically, culturally and socially.