We ❤️ Community Bike Repair Programs

[Matt Catanzarite]

Hello,

The League of Michigan Bicyclists just launched a petition campaign asking the state legislature to fund community bike repair programs (like Common Cycle) in this year's budget. If you support the work of Common Cycle and other similar organizations around the state, consider filling it out!

 

Tail lights are red
Our logo is blue 
Let's fund bike repairs 
Our petition needs YOU!

Happy Valentine's Day! Spread the love and support LMB's ask for community bike repair funding

The governor recently proposed a state budget for the next year, including a $25 million program to encourage people to buy new cars. We'd like to make sure bikes are part of the budget. LMB is asking lawmakers for $200,000 funding to help community bike repair programs that serve the folks who most need reliable transportation on two wheels.

For some Michiganders, bicycling serves as a safety-net transportation option, especially low-income folks, refugees, the homeless, and kids. Community bike repair programs fill a key role, but may struggle to find operating funds for parts and supplies, to operate programming, and to compensate instructors.

“Through our operations, we give old bikes a new life and
a new purpose. Independence and opportunity are what
we are able to provide... Because of our reliance on
volunteers, bike and parts donations, and relationships
with parts wholesalers, we can keep our costs low.

Although many of our bikes are quite old, we are proud
of the quality we can create and provide.”

– Upcycle Bikes, Grand Rapids

The League of Michigan Bicyclists can sustainably address this need with state appropriation, which would allow us to fund local Community Bike Repair programs over the next 5-10 years through our successful Better Bicycling Grant program. We're petitioning lawmakers to include our funding request in their budget plans.

 Will you be our Valentine, and sign on to our petition?

Sign the Petition

 

P.S. Ready to take things to the next level? Apply to be on the LMB board

LMB is seeking to fill up to four openings for our Board of Directors. If you're enthusiastic about bicycling in Michigan and interested in committing to a service role on the LMB board, apply by March 4.

 

As a statewide organization, LMB advocates for better bicycling at the state level and in communities across Michigan. Our mission is to improve life through bicycling. As a board member, you will help guide the direction and operation of LMB, including its finances and policies. You are also a liaison between LMB and the community you represent. LMB seeks to have a diverse representation on its Board including race, gender, age, geographic area of Michigan, type of bicycling interest, professional experience, and more. Expectations of board members include:

 

• • Support the work of LMB to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive cycling community in Michigan and to stand against racism, sexism, ageism, and other forms of oppression
  • Serve as a connection between LMB and the bicycle community in their region
  • Serve on at least one of the committees of the Board
  • Participate in the fundraising efforts of LMB which may include personal contributions, promoting fundraising campaigns, securing financial contributions from donors, and other activities
  • Be a current LMB member
  • Participate in at least three (3) board meetings annually

If you are interested in serving on the Board of Directors, please complete the Interest Form by March 4; if desired you may also send in your resume and cover letter. If you have questions, please let us know; contact Stephen Hannon at sha...@lmb.org. Thank you for your interest in serving on the Board of Directors!