Gearin’ Up Bicycles helps youth develop character and job skills in a positive and welcoming atmosphere. All activities are free for youth and possible thanks to generous supporters, shop customers, and donations of used bicycles and parts.
Youth Night
Led by our advanced youth mechanics, Youth Night is held weekly on select nights from 6-8 PM, for youth ages 12 and older. Come learn how to fix your bike, from a flat fix to installing a new cassette to any repair you want to learn.
Youth Bicycle Force
Youth Bike Force clinics teach bicycle maintenance to youth in DC neighborhoods not served by for-profit bicycle stores. These events provide an opportunity for our youth mechanics to practice their skills and help residents keep their bicycles safe and ready to ride.
Want to see a youth clinic at your school or rec center?
Reach out to Tori, our Program Coordinator, at tori@gearinupbicycles.org.
Job Training
After finishing Earn-A-Bike or 100 volunteer hours, youth 16 years and older can enroll in our job training program where they learn in-depth bicycle repair and customer service skills essential to entry-level jobs. The program targets minority youth, ages 16-24, who encounter barriers to employment. To create long-term stability, Gearin’ Up helps youth mechanics interview and apply for permanent jobs with more than 50 bicycle shops in the greater D.C. area, companies, and secondary education opportunities.
Earn-A-Bike
Through Earn-A-Bike, youth ages 12 to 18 get the opportunity to build and take home their very own bicycles every year. This hands-on program, guided by experienced staff and volunteers, teaches basic repairs, tools, and safety. Youth choose a used frame and dedicate 16 hours, usually over the course of six to eight weeks, to refurbish a bicycle and volunteer in the Gearin’ Up bicycle shop.