08/16/2026
Three weeks ago Chatel could not do this. She never rode a bike before. She is eleven. Under the guidance of her peers she learned the ins and outs of the art of riding a bike. No training wheels needed; just access to a bike, time to practice, and guidance from kind friends. Now, nothing phases her. A friend jumping out to surprise her and test her wits- no problem. Squirrels darting across the parking lot - no problem. Yes, this happens a lot now with the sunflower’s readily offering up their seeds. Falling off, all part of the process. Keep on riding!
So you see my friends, the shared parking lot of Grace Place and CARES Family Shelter has become the go to spot where kids mentor kids on how to ride a bike. They know where the patches of gravel are to do awesome slides fit for the movie screen. They go from one hand off, to no hands needed. 😳 They can ride on one side of the bike with one leg extended out. Yes, popping wheelies are a must. Their confidence in one another’s ability to be able to do the once unimaginable thing drives them to collective success. These kids are resilient. They are courageous. They are kind. They also are in need of helmets as you can clearly see 🥴 so if you want to help out with this please don’t hesitate to DM us or drop helmets off at Grace Place. Kids ages 4 to 15.
Also a quick shout out, if you have a functioning bike you want to pass along to another person, we would be happy to help you give it a new home. All sizes are accepted. Bikes can be brought to Grace Place or CARES Family Shelter in Shippensburg. You can DM us if you want to connect.
Peace and love my friends. Happy pedaling!
