Open Roads is a youth development program in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We provide job skill training, apprenticeships, bike repair services, and more to youth in the Kalamazoo community. Throughout the year we run a variety of programs designed to provide bikes and bike repair services to students for low or no-cost.
The Earn-a-Bike program is a five-to-six-week program where students ages 8-18 meet once a week for two hours a day with skilled Instructors. Students gain hands-on bike mechanic skills while learning social skills to help navigate their lives at home, in the classroom, and out in the community.
In the end each student earns a:
- bicycle
- helmet
- lock
- t-shirt
F.A.Q.s
Do students have to attend all of the sessions to earn their bike?
Answer: Students need to attend all sessions in order to earn their bike. Exceptions can be made by the instructors for exacerbating circumstances.
Do students need to bring anything to their Earn-a-Bike program sessions?
Answer: Students should wear or bring closed-toe shoes and will not be permitted to partake in program that day if they do not have closed-toe shoes. Please dress for the weather! We often play games and work outside, so jackets or long sleeves are encouraged October-April.
Can parents stay with their student for the program sessions?
Answer: We have a fantastic team of Instructors who are excited to work with your student! The staff to student ratio is 1:3, ensuring students get plenty of attention and support. If you are particularly concerned about your student’s ability to thrive within a small group, please let us know and we will be happy to make accommodations that work for your child.