Wildwood Bike Recycling Begets Success Again

It was Wildwood's second year of offering an annual bicycle recycling program, and a total of 354 bikes now are in the hands of nonprofit volunteers who will give them new life.

Wildwood city staffers again partnered with St. Louis BWorks (BicycleWorks) to collect bicycles and related parts Saturday in Town Center. Bicycle parts also were accepted. In fact, anything with wheels could have been donated: bicycles, tricycles, scooters, wagons, baby strollers—any item that is non-motorized with wheels.

The old bikes, or bicycles in need of repair, will be reconditioned or rebuilt by BicycleWorks and eventually are given to deserving children, who cannot afford to purchase a bicycle on their own, but who will earn one through various programs and projects.

At Monday's city council meeting, Wildwood Tim Woerther said last year more than 500 bikes were donated at Wildwood's bicycle recycling day.

The non-profit's charter program, St. Louis Bicycle Works, gives kids the chance to earn a free bike while they learn about bicycle safety and maintenance from volunteers. They learn to work independently and as a group to solve problems. About 350 kids graduate from the program every year, earning their own bike, helmet, light and lock. St. Louis Bicycle Works also features a bike shop, where anyone can purchase a fully refurbished bike, with the proceeds benefiting St. Louis BWorks programs.

Main workshops are held at the BWorks headquarters.

BWorks volunteers currently use the International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA) training course when they work with local police and public safety in terms of training. IPMBA offers internationally recognized Certification and Training Courses.