What could be better than doing what you love and serving the common good at the same time? That’s exactly what Community Cycles in Boulder, CO is all about and one of the (many) reasons Watershed School is proud to partner with them!
Dedicated to providing safe bicycle transportation for all since 2006, Community Cycles has grown into a nonprofit that advocates for critical bicycle travel infrastructure and provides technical assistance, education, and citywide advocacy campaigns to benefit cycling novices, enthusiasts, and experts alike. Their work includes supplying thousands of refurbished bikes to people in need each year, offering numerous bike repair classes & workshops, promoting cycling opportunities for every age, and advocating for bicycle-friendly city development throughout Boulder.
Community Cycles Shop Director, Dax Burgos says of Community Cycles’ evolution since 2005, “We've come a long way since the original idea one high school student had to keep old bikes out of the landfill, fix them up and give them away. Our mission continues to grow with the next generation, through community partnerships like Watershed School.”
And, Watershed School is proud to have partnered with Community Cycles since 2010! This fall, Watershed educator, Locke Hassett, met with Community Cycles to learn how Watershed 8th graders in the “Physics of Bicycles” expedition course could help them. Under the guidance of professional bike mechanics, students worked in small groups to restore the old bicycles given to them by Community Cycles to road-ready condition. Community Cycles then included the restored bikes in their bicycle giveaway programs. Using their knowledge of the physics of simple machines, students identified mechanical issues with their bike, problem-solved solutions, made the necessary repairs, and then reflected on the process.
“It's a fantastic opportunity to work with Watershed, where we see kids learn that they can have a real impact on the world around them. There's a good chance that they will see the bike that they worked on out and about in Boulder!” remarked Dax Burgos.
The “Physics of Bicycles” is a staple of the Watershed middle school course offerings. Coupled with the companion, humanities-focused expedition course, the “Power of Bicycles,” students are able to dive deep into the social, environmental, and mechanical aspects of bicycles and bicycle use. The expertise, passion, and dedication of Community Cycles embodies much of what Watershed students learn in one, wonderful local nonprofit.
“The great thing about working with local partners like Community Cycles is the simplicity of coordinating a mutually beneficial partnership. Not only do students see a clear connection between their work and the community they live in, but Watershed is able to provide real and tangible benefit to our local community. It's a win-win!” noted Locke Hassett, Watershed Educator.
Check out Community Cycles’ website to learn more about all they offer Boulder County and take a look at Community Cycle’s upcoming events and classes here.
