Although we often tend to complain, we must admit that compared to some other countries, we do not have it so bad. For example, in Africa, there are still areas where the opportunity for basic education is certainly not a given, and low literacy then complicates employment in the labor market. The charity project Bikes for Africa is trying to fix this at least a little bit.
Journey to school and work
The Bikes for Africa organization was founded at the beginning of 2012. The principle is the donation of used (preferably mountain) bikes, which then travel to Africa. There, they enable children to get to school. And not only that!
Directly in The Gambia, where this charity event is currently taking place, its organizers also cooperate with an English organization on an educational project for local mechanics, teachers, and students. Together, they are establishing service workshops where the bikes are well taken care of. This has several benefits – increased job opportunities, the development of new skills, and a reduction in the number of bicycles that would otherwise soon end up in a landfill without maintenance.
Because in the non-profit sector, it is generally true that there are never enough financial resources and opportunities to spread awareness about a given problem, the Bikes for Africa organization also organizes associated benefit events in the form of runs and competitions.
How can you get involved?
Besides donating a bike and participating in the aforementioned events, you can of course also contribute with a financial donation or get involved as a volunteer. You can find all the details on the project website.
Want to know more? So do we! That is why we decided to use the space of our new store to organize an Evening for The Gambia. In addition to displayed photographs and a screened video, you can look forward to a lecture by Roman Posolda, the director of the organization, who will introduce the entire project to you in more detail. You will also learn a lot of interesting facts, both about the implementation of this charitable endeavor and about The Gambia and the situation there.
The event will take place at our store on June 14th at 6:30 PM (sign up for the Facebook event). You will be able to see the photographs on the store premises for some time afterward.
We hope you won't miss this evening! And we will also be happy if you bring your friends along. We look forward to seeing you!
