Bikes for Neighbors

For many refugees, bicycling is an efficient and reliable form of transportation. The Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition aims to foster all forms of cycling, including transportation.

In 2020, the program was restructured and re-titled to serve a broader array of people in the Harrisonburg-Rockingham community who could use a bicycle for transportation. The new name, Bikes for Neighbors, is inspired by the city’s neighborly atmosphere and the “No matter where you are from, we are glad you’re our neighbor” signs, which originated in this lovely city.

How the Program Works

We partner with organizations in the area to connect with people who are interested in bicycling to commute to work, school, appointments, shopping, etc. (We have previously done most of our work with Church World Service, and we hope to connect with more local organizations!) Whether a person has known how to bike since childhood, or have never touched a bicycle, they are welcome at Bikes for Neighbors!

Once people are signed up, they attend a class taught by SVBC volunteers where they learn basic bike skills, safety skills, and bicycle-related laws. At the end of the 2-hour class, participants get to take home their bicycle, helmet, bike lock, and bike pump, which are provided through donations. If they want any additional help or teaching in the following weeks or months, we are happy to schedule supplemental one-on-one classes with them. To date, we have given away over 50 bicycles and taught over 60 folks cycling skills.

Do you have someone in mind who could participate in our Bikes for Neighbors program?

Fill out our Interested Participant form.