IV Velo Bike Refurbishing Program

In 2015, the Imperial Valley Velo Club started a program to solicit donations of used bikes to refurbish and give away to deserving youth.  Especially through the efforts of volunteer Roland Pritchard, IV Velo formed a relationship with two nearby universities that needed to move out the bikes that had been abandoned by students at the end of each semester. 

During that first year, IV Velo repaired and donated 95 bikes to various local agencies and needy individuals.  Recipients of our bikes were CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), which takes care of foster children throughout Imperial County; Center for Family Solutions, which helps abused people (mostly women) escape dysfunctional relationships, and the El Centro Police Officers Association.  We have also donated bikes across the border in Mexicali. 

IV Velo also donated over 100 bikes to the Salvation Army to raise money to help the needy.  

In 2016, IV Velo continues to collect bikes, repair them, and redistribute them in Imperial County.  Funds to support this program came from a grant through the Imperial Valley Community Foundation and revenue from the 3:10 to Yuma Charity Bike Ride held in February.