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Our vision: Youth development connects
communities
The Chicagoland Bicycle Federation strives to serve
the needs of bicycle riders of all ages, locations and backgrounds.
One critical way of meeting that goal is through youth development
programs that introduce, strengthen, and facilitate biking in the
city and surrounding regions.
Chicagoland Bicycle Federation Community Liaison Keith Holt attests
to the benefits of these programs for kids and communities –
“Youth development is a tool that helps us work in underserved
areas and gives kids an alternative to at-risk behavior. When we
connect to communities, bicycling becomes a natural part of that
community.”
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| Community Liaison Adolfo Hernandez speaks with
a Kelvyn Park High School student and Go Healthy! participant
about adjusting her bike. |
Eventually Chicagoland Bicycle Federation envisions
a region where 10 youth development programs are in place throughout
Chicago and the suburbs. Part of this vision is expanding existing
programs.
Youth programs like Bickerbikes,
Blackstone
Bicycle Works and the Chicago Department of Transportation’s
After School Matters work to empower youth through bicycling.
Another part of the plan is to continue to work with agencies like
the Department of Transportation and the Park District and to establish
partnerships in many neighborhoods. Community partners and participation
are critical to our goal of serving more bikers, especially youth
and those in underserved communities.
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