BikeForce: Investing in and Transforming the lives of our Youth
Equiticity's BikeForce program is a transformative force in Chicago's North Lawndale community. Far more than a standard workforce development initiative, BikeForce is a bold step toward shaping the future of the transportation industry while empowering the next generation of leaders.
Since its inception, this innovative initiative has empowered more than 50 young people, aged 15-19, with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the rapidly evolving transportation industry. Through hands-on learning, participants are mastering the basics of electricity, exploring the intricacies of e-bike batteries, and honing their abilities to disassemble and reassemble bikes. This hands-on experience goes beyond the basics, laying the groundwork for a career in an industry that is shifting toward sustainable technologies.
BikeForce is shaping the future, one cohort at a time. Over the course of three successful sessions—Fall 2023, Winter 2024, and Summer 2024—sponsored by the Cook County Justice Advisory Council (JAC), and with additional support from the Steans Family Foundation (SFF) during the summer, BikeForce has become a blueprint for community-driven education. Each session has offered participants a deep dive into emerging transportation technologies, providing invaluable real-world experience that sets them up for future success.
A standout moment for many was our visit to the ComEd Powering Lives Community Center, where participants got a firsthand look at the technologies that are redefining our world. They explored the journey to clean energy, understood the workings of smart grids, and glimpsed the future of energy innovation. These experiences have opened doors to a world of possibilities, inspiring the young minds of North Lawndale to dream bigger and aim higher.
But BikeForce is about more than just technical training—it’s about building a community. The program encourages personal growth and camaraderie through activities like neighborhood bike rides, where participants not only explore their surroundings but also strengthen their bonds with one another. Some have even stepped into mentorship roles, passing on their newfound skills to peers, creating a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment throughout the community.
The program's commitment to these young people is clear: Each participant receives a $1,100 stipend and a bike, symbolizing the investment BikeForce makes in their future. By blending technical training with mentorship and community-building, the program nurtures young leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the future of transportation.
BikeForce isn't just a program—it's a movement. We're not just training technicians; we're creating change-makers. BikeForce is proof that with the right support and opportunities, young people can be the architects of their own future. As we roll into the next chapter of this incredible journey, we're excited to see where these young trailblazers will take us.
Want to learn more about how you can support BikeForce or get involved? Reach out to us! Contact Remel Terry, Director of Programs, at remel@equiticity.org.
