Warmer weather means bike season in Wheeling, and the Men of Change are kicking it off with a community bike ride to promote fellowship and wellbeing. The event will be held this Saturday, May 29 beginning at 11 am at Wheeling Heritage Port.
Bikers will head south on the trail to 48th Street before returning back to Heritage Port. The ride is open to anyone who wishes to join. Those who don’t own a bike can take advantage of the City of Wheeling’s bike share.
READ: City of Wheeling’s Bike Share Ready for Riders
While the event is for children and adults alike, the Men of Change have planned a special giveaway for a few lucky children. Thanks to a generous donation from Ohio Valley Supply and Taylor’s Pre-Owned Auto, the Men of Change will be giving away bikes via a random drawing at the event.
This event is the latest of several organized by the group to help empower, uplift support and educate the community. In the last year, they’ve hosted a blood drive, school supply giveaway, and a holiday toy drive, to name a few.
“Our mission to be Men of Change has to be all-encompassing,” says Men of Change member Ron Scott Jr. “Sometimes the change is mental, sometimes it’s emotional, sometimes it’s physical, and sometimes it’s a change of perception. We understand that health and wellbeing are just as important as racial and social justice, so we’re looking forward to an afternoon of fun, relaxation, and exercise.”
READ: Men of Change Help 400 Students with Back-to-School Giveaway
The Men of Change has partnered with several local organizations to help make this weekend’s bike event possible, including CASA for Children, Inc., Wheeling Health Right, Wheeling Police Department, Taylor’s Pre-owned Autos, and Ohio Valley Supply. Any organizations who are interested in partnering in this event are encouraged to contact the Men of Change. Donations of helmets and other safety equipment to complement the bike giveaway would be welcomed and greatly appreciated.
To learn more about the Men of Change and get involved, you can check out their Facebook page or email them at ovmenofchange@gmail.com.
• Alex Panas is the Program Manager for Wheeling Heritage, where she works with artists, small business owners, and community stakeholders to provide technical assistance and create meaningful programs that enhance Wheeling. She also serves as the managing editor for Weelunk. Alex lives in St. Clairsville with her husband where they raise four cats and four spunky backyard chickens.