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View Full Version : Volunteer Nights @ Local Bike Shop


Velocivixen
05-17-2011, 08:14 AM
So we have the Washington County Bicycle Transportation Coalition and part of what they do is accept new/used bikes to refurbish & sell. They also have various programs for children, biking education, etc.

They have drop in volunteering nights weekly and one is tonight, so I thought I'd try it.

There's a place in Portland that has a drop in volunteer night also that I did a few years ago, but quit going because of the distance. The Washington County group is closer. You don't have to know a thing about bikes either (I know a heck of a lot more than I did a few years ago). I think tearing bikes apart and adjusting things on them would be a great way for me to learn & build confidence regarding simple bike repair AND help my community.

Do any of you do this sort of thing? Would you if it was available? Just curious.
LivetoRide
05-17-2011, 05:08 PM
I help out at my LBS if I have spare time, etc. but they don't have dedicated volunteer nights; My LBS is owned and operated by one guy so he always appreciates any help. In being a shop rat I've gained volunteer hours for college, learned a lot about everything that is bike related (and not), have met many people to ride with in the area...
Velocivixen
05-17-2011, 08:34 PM
Oh that's great that you help out, and a good way to learn. I thought I'd do it for the first time tonight, but then the clouds parted and it warmed up a little (it's been the rainiest spring in about 40 years here), so I rode my bike instead! I can drop in any Tuesday and I think I will learn a lot.
VeganBikeChick
05-17-2011, 08:58 PM
Oh that's great that you help out, and a good way to learn. I thought I'd do it for the first time tonight, but then the clouds parted and it warmed up a little (it's been the rainiest spring in about 40 years here), so I rode my bike instead! I can drop in any Tuesday and I think I will learn a lot.

What a great idea, VV. Tell us how it goes.
LivetoRide
05-18-2011, 04:06 AM
It's been incredibly rainy here, too, so I can't blame you for riding! Let us know how it goes tomorrow.
Velocivixen
05-18-2011, 06:53 AM
Good Morning VeganBikeChick & LivetoRide. The volunteer night was last night, so I chose to go for a ride instead. It was warm(ish) around 68 degrees, the sun was out with a slight breeze. I chose a nearby park that I've never actually been to - only near. It is near one of my familiar bike routes, so I rode there, sat in the park and watched the children's soccer groups, parents with kids playing and folks walking their pooches. Then I rode around the neighborhood, and rode home a different route. A total of 9.02 miles.
I really look forward to volunteering, but I "Scout", my bike said she felt the need to run her wheels a little. ;)