SAN RAFAEL, CA (BRAIN)—Trips for Kids National recently announced unprecedented support of its Trips for Kids Chapter in Twin Cities (TFK Twin Cities) by Bloomington-based Quality Bicycle Products (QBP).
With the move of the chapter's founding director Rick McFerrin to Calgary, Canada to start another Trips for Kids Chapter in that city, QBP stepped in to manage the day-to-day operations of TFK Twin Cities. Its goal is to develop a team of local volunteers that will eventually run the organization with QBP's ongoing support.
"QBP believes strongly in the Trips for Kids mission to mentor kids and increase their overall fitness," says Jason Grantz, member of the QBP Advocacy, Community, and Environment Committee. "And of course, our whole industry benefits when more young people discover the fun and excitement of riding bikes."
Launched earlier this year with a $10,000 grant from QBP, a leading distributor of bicycle parts, accessories and apparel, TFK Twin Cities benefits from an incomparable level of private support. Start-up funds were used to obtain bikes, helmets and an equipment support trailer. A local Web site and educational brochures were also created. Drawing on its extensive network of vendors and bike dealers, QBP procured donations for more equipment and funds. Volunteers from the company also serve as ride leaders, mechanics and board members. Penn Cycles, a Twin Cities bicycle retailer, also donated 13 bicycles and plans to provide more next year.
While QBP will continue to support TFK Twin Cities, it is working to help the chapter become completely independent and self-sustaining.
"We planted the seeds here. Now we're inviting others to step forward and help it thrive and grow. This is an investment in the future of our communities and our industry," Grantz said.
