Kentucky organization restores bicycles to provide transportation for those in need
ST. MATTHEWS, Ky. (InvestigateTV) - Behind Beargrass Christian Church in St. Matthews, Kentucky, sits a garage where a group of volunteers puts power behind every pedal.
“We are a well-kept secret,” said Bob Callander.
The group is called Pedal Power, and it’s made up of volunteers working to give bicycles to people who need transportation.
“The group is a lot of former bikers, (and) a lot of retired guys,” Callender said.
“I like it. We are giving to the community,” said John Slaughter, a member of Pedal Power.
“It’s almost a guys’ club,” said Callander.
Growing demand for bicycles
The mission started simply, but demand quickly grew.
“People found out about us and all of a sudden the bikes started showing up outside of this garage here,” Callender said.
“Everyone has a bike that’s sitting in their garage, attic, or basement, or somewhere that’s not in use,” said Slaughter.
“Why not, instead of throwing them away, give them to an organization that can fix them up and use them,” Callender said.
The Pedal Power bikes give people freedom and independence they may not have had, particularly refugees.
“We knew that community came here without cars, money, without a driver’s license, and they needed a form of transportation other than TARC,” said Callender.
The group also gives bikes to community ministries in the St. Matthews area, people getting out of prison, and homeless individuals.
Paying it forward
Terry Robinson has received a bike from Pedal Power in the past and now helps distribute them to others who need transportation.
“Great people in our community. Great people in our community,” Robinson said.
Robinson said helping others brings him satisfaction.
“It makes me feel good,” Robinson said.
“I’m 55. I’ve got less days in front of me than I do in back of me. So I want to do something good.”
Robinson said he regularly connects people with bicycles through Pedal Power.
“I met a girl at the bus stop the other day, she was late for work. She needed a 24-inch bike, and I delivered it to her job. She was so happy. That sort of stuff like that brings joy to my heart,” Robinson said.
Pedal Power’s mission when it started in 2013 was to give away 50 bikes, but donations kept pouring in, and the need was great. The organization has given away nearly 11,000 bikes over the years.
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