1. The Vastness of What We Do

I knew the Coalition was busy, but I couldn’t have imagined just how vast our work is. One minute, I’m in conversation with a city partner about getting kids to school safely by bike and foot. The next, I’m reviewing trail plans, writing an impact report, biking through our urban streets blasting music with 50 people pedaling behind me, advocating for a bill in DC, or teaching bike lessons. We’re applying for grants, fixing bikes, hosting community events, and collaborating across recreation, conservation, and advocacy—all in a day’s work.

2. The People—And the Legacy

I didn’t fully grasp the people power behind the Coalition until I saw it in action. I had no idea the number of people involved—and when people have been involved in these efforts for over 40 years, that’s a lot of history!

I think of our Century planning team meeting weekly for months to pull off a phenomenally smooth event. Or Yogi, Mike, and Sam, who each jumped in to move a trailer whenever needed this year. Leaders step up to host weekly rides, committed voices strongly advocate for more connected greenways and improved streets for all, and numerous folks are out there weekly maintaining trails. This is what 40+ years of grassroots history looks like, and I know I won’t fully grasp its depth even after another year.

Returning Friendly Faces 

At the same time, I get a dose of real hope when I see new faces becoming regulars. This year, I watched a family attend our Bike Anywhere Day and then attend their first Dig Day; I met families for the first time at an Ice Cream Ride and saw them again at the Campout. Seeing people discover a love for trails and community—and keep showing up—is something I’ll never take for granted.

Bonus: I can hardly go to the store or trailhead without seeing someone I’ve personally connected with through the Coalition.

3. How Effective We Are

From trail maintenance projects to providing bike transportation and building a 50-mile rail trail, your support directly goes to something people experience.

When we say, “This work happens because of you,” or “You fuel our movement,” or “You support better biking!” it can sound a bit lackluster and diminish the true ways every dollar, volunteer hour, and ounce of passion sustains a vast, intricate web of daily actions. But believe me, it does. I’m continuously amazed by what can come (sometimes slowly, sometimes quickly) with hundreds of moving parts, dozens and dozens of highly dedicated people, three passionately invested staff (and previously just ONE!), plus an incredible board of directors.

This year has been a wild ride, and I’m so grateful to have witnessed the depth and breadth of what our Coalition does every single day. Even more, having your support allows this work, which can be so vast, to touch all parts of the Valley. It’s deeply meaningful—and it’s only possible because of all of you who believe in our mission and share your generous energy and donations.

Can you continue that generosity this season? Your donation will be MATCHED until the end of the year, so there is no better time to support.