4-Star Chicagoan: Working Bikes

What started with Lee Ravenscroft and his wife Amy Little collecting and recycling old bikes in Chicago, has grown into an international 'cycle' of giving. Today's 4-Star Chicagoan has provided tens of thousands of bikes to those in need locally, and around the world.

Working Bikes was founded in 1999 by Lee, Amy and a group of volunteers dedicated to recycling bikes, supporting bike culture, and helping international and local projects. Since its inception 17 years ago, Working Bikes has recovered tens of thousands of discarded and donated bicycles from Chicago and the Midwest, and has redistributed more than 50,000 of them worldwide.

Working Bikes rescues discarded bicycles and gives them new life by redistributing them as tools of empowerment in local and global communities. They donate over 6,000 bicycles each year to our international and local partners.

Working Bikes continues to operate today largely through the efforts of dedicated volunteers, donors, recycle event organizers, and over 60 bicycle drop off locations. Proceeds from shop sales directly benefit bike donation programs. There are many ways to help, whether you are an expert bike mechanic, or just enjoy giving back to the community.

Join the 17th anniversary party on October 25th from 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM at Lagunitas Brewing Company.

Find out where to donate here: http://www.workingbikes.org/