A local club is looking for volunteers as they get set to start their bike program.
BGC Williams Lake Club’s after school mountain biking program provides youth of all ages and skill levels with the opportunity to experience one of the Cariboo’s best recreational activities, and they are hoping more volunteers will come forward to assist with the program and club. The program costs $50 for the whole season.
The number of youth that participate has fluctuated over the years.
This year, BGC has had to limit the number of kids to 12 for each session due to the amount of Class 4 drivers the club has, which in turn has limited the amount of bikes that can safely be carried on their trailers. Monday sessions are currently full with a wait list, while Wednesday still has a bit of room remaining.
Formerly known as Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District, BGC says that cycling is more than a mode of transport. For many, it is a way to channel energy into a positive focal point while exploring educational opportunities along the way, such as mechanics and maintenance, environmental awareness, trail building, challenge in a non-threatening manner, problem solving skills, clothing design and ride styles, fitness and nutrition.
“Cycling is a healthy, lifelong activity that bridges generations,” said BGC director Krista Harvey. “It is a pastime readily accepted by many youth including those that don’t fit in with traditional school sports, providing an excellent venue to pedal away angst and experience success while improving health and self esteem.”
Harvey added cycling allows ample room for individuality in all aspects of the sport, and riding styles have become so numerous that anyone can fit into two-wheel culture. Riders also experience the beauty of camaraderie combined with the strength of individuality.
The goal of the program is to keep the kids active, outdoors and engaged while helping them build social skills, self esteem and friendship.
“It’s so great to watch the kids take on leadership roles,” Harvey said.
“The youth that participate develop stronger riding skills throughout the program.”
The program is run by youth and adult leaders who have taken the Sprockids training with Doug Detweiler, as the trails and bikes often demand a great deal of creativity, motor skills and mechanical know-how.
BGC is hoping more people will volunteer to help out with the bike program and around the club as well, as volunteers mean so much to the program by adding another level of safety and confidence, and bring a wealth of knowledge and skill.
“Volunteers add to our programming with many talents, skills, and some volunteers have become permanent employees,” Harvey explained. “It is a great opportunity for youth to get their volunteer hours as well as add to their resumes.”
Other volunteer opportunities include for events which would be an asset for BGC’s street part and haunted house. There are also opportunities to volunteer by sharing a talent, such as teaching an instrument, knitting, crafting, sewing and anything else that would be beneficial to the kids. Youth and adults can volunteer after filling out a small volunteer package and criminal record check.
“Volunteers are a huge asset to our club and community,” Harvey said.
READ MORE: OUR HOMETOWN: Krista Harvey - There in times of need
READ MORE: BGC Williams Lake after school mountain biking program still going
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