ABOUT US
Access to transportation impacts nearly every area of our lives.
It’s the difference between opportunity and threat when it comes to economic stability, education, health, community, and more.
Those who already experience barriers to thriving—like low-income individuals and families—are impacted more than others by a lack of transportation access. Over 25% of low-income adults lack reliable transportation, and low-income households spend 30% of their income on transportation.
Upcycle Bikes exists to strengthen independence, opportunity, and connection through affordable and accessible transportation for individuals with financial constraints. By collecting used bikes donated by community members, refurbishing these bikes with staff and volunteer mechanics, and distributing the bikes at no cost through a network of over 50 partner organizations in West Michigan, we ensure vital transportation resources reach those who need them most.
Our Mission
Upcycle Bikes strengthens independence, opportunity, and connection through affordable and accessible transportation by providing refurbished adult bikes at no cost to individuals with financial constraints.
Our Vision
To create a community accessible for all!
What We Do
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COLLECT
We collect old and used bikes donated by community members who don’t need them.
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REFURBISH
Our mechanics and volunteers thoroughly refurbish these used bikes to ensure they’re functional, safe, and comfortable.
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DISTRIBUTE
We distribute refurbished bikes at no cost to community members with financial constraints through our network of distribution partner organizations.
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IMPACT
Bike recipients gain transportation—along with independence, opportunity, and connection—through their new ride.
Our History
In early 2022, cyclists Rick Armbruster and Matt Jaglowski each began fixing donated bikes for refugee groups in West Michigan who needed basic, affordable transportation to access employment, resources, appointments, and more. Rick volunteered with Bethany Christian Services and the Afghan refugees they served, while Matt volunteered with the local Ukrainian refugee community. The two were introduced by a mutual friend and together wondered whether this was a broader need; conversations with area nonprofits and leaders confirmed that transportation was a significant challenge for many community members. Upcycle Bikes was founded in August 2022 in response to this community need, providing refurbished adult bikes at no cost to individuals with financial constraints.
Our Values
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SAFETY
Ensuring quality bike refurbishment and promoting safe cycling practices by providing helmets, locks, lights, and rules of the road information.
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DIGNITY
Engaging our community with respect and providing high-quality bikes that riders can be proud of.
Our bikes are tools for independence.
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SUSTAINABILITY
Upcycling and recycling materials and resources to divert potential waste from landfills.
Stewarding our resources to continue to provide impact in West Michigan in perpetuity.
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COMMUNITY
Creating access and connection through transportation; building relationships with partners, volunteers, donors, and riders for impact.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Statement
Upcycle Bikes satisfies our mission to address the transportation challenges of individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, and national origins; faiths and ideologies; sexual orientations; gender expressions and gender identities; and races and racial identities. We are committed to advocating for and supporting individuals from all income groups across the full economic spectrum. We support and promote the idea of all individuals working together to support each other to build one inclusive and accessible community.