Sharing the Dream: How One Non-profit is Benefitting Communities Through Bike Shops [Podcast #285]

Dream Bikes is a non-profit organization that strategically places used bicycle stores in low-to-moderate income neighborhoods to provide hands-on, paid job training to teens.

By Jeff Barber
April 19, 2021 Last Updated: April 19, 2021

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Experienced bike mechanic Paul Brazeau works with Ryan Jackson on a repair. Photo: Dream Bikes.

Matt Martinez is the executive director of Dream Bikes, a non-profit organization that strategically places used bicycle stores in low-to-moderate income neighborhoods to provide hands-on, paid job training to teens. Dream Bikes has refurbished and returned more than 10,000 bikes to service, and operates two shops in Wisconsin.

We ask Matt:

Is there a lot of demand for bike mechanics? How does the pay for professional mechanics compare to other jobs?
What kind of impact can access to affordable bikes have on communities?
Are you seeing increased demand for bikes during the pandemic?
Beyond providing repairs and selling bikes, how does a thriving local bike shop impact neighborhoods?
Is there an environmental aspect to your mission?
Beyond the training your group provides, what is the value of a more formal bike repair education?
Does a lack of infrastructure like bike lanes or even trails limit the reach or utility of the program in the communities where you operate?
What are some ways mountain bikers can help your organization?
Are there other opportunities to help communities through bikes? What is the greatest need you’re currently unable to meet?

Learn more at dream-bikes.org.

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