YouthQuest Hosts Bike Rodeos For Flint-Area Kids, Seek Bike Donations

While most kids have fond memories of riding their bicycles, statistics show that thousands of kids head to the emergency room every year due to bike accidents. Unsafe practices are often the cause.

Recognizing this, YouthQuest, an afterschool program managed by the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the first of two Bike Rodeos on September 26, from 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. The event will be held on the grounds of YouthQuest offices at 4100 Pier North Blvd. in Flint. The second Bike Rodeo will be held on October 11 at YouthQuest offices.

In preparation, YouthQuest is calling for bicycle donations – new or used, for boys and girls. Bikes are needed for children ages 5-12 years old, from two-wheelers to bikes with training wheels.

The event supports one of YouthQuest’s key focus areas which is physical fitness and healthy behaviors. The event will consist of activities such as rodeo games, riding on bike courses, Craft, Treasure Hunt, and an informative bike safety station managed by the Genesys Health Foundation. In addition, Genesys will supply bike helmets to raffle off to students along with having a demonstration on bicycle safety.

The YouthQuest Bike Rodeos are supported by the Safe & Active Genesee for Everyone (SAGE) mini-grant program offered through the Crim Fitness Foundation. YouthQuest was one of five grantees awarded $1,000 for active living programs in Genesee County.

“We’re so excited to host the Bike Rodeo, because there’s nothing better than taking your bike out for a ride on a beautiful day” said Rhetta Hunyady, Vice President of Education & Training at the Genesee Regional Chamber. “Not only will the kids have a great time, they will learn how to take precautions to ride safely.”

The Bike Rodeos will be held for over 2,000 students that attend YouthQuest. Donated bikes can be dropped off at YouthQuest offices or contact Meghan Slaght at 810.422.5904 or mslaght@yquest.org for additional information.