The Trips for Kids Program is about health and community building, helping kids ages 11-18, learn about bicycle safety, maintenance, and active lifestyles. With Get Healthy SMC funding, Trips for Kids expanded to engage youth in developing a survey and video series to educate youth and families on biking, equipment maintenance, and access to local trails.

At the 2nd Annual NFO Bike Rodeo, youth created bike maintenance and repair videos on how to fix a flat, how to check and change brake pads, and how to check axles and derailleurs. Participants also collected survey data on access to green space and safe bike routes in NFO.

Based on survey data, participants developed three separate bike routes to reach green space safely in NFO. Participants presented their proposal for safe routes to open space as well as signage design ideas to the North Fair Oaks Community Council. They addressed the importance of safe access to green space and the dangers of biking in the neighborhood due to lack of signage compared to other areas in the county. Watch the meeting video here.

Next steps are for the North Fair Oaks Community Council to decide on which of the safe routes should be approved to provide more open space for the community.

“I had a lot of fun fixing bikes for the community and for our classmates.” Jonathan Ramos

The Trips for Kids program was a success due to the high level of program interest. Participants were able to exhibit leadership skills and be part of a decision-making processes, setting the tone for future participants and youth-led research.

“This program helped me fight for my community.” Aaron Gonzalez

Parents of participants also became involved with the program by biking with the group, attending community meetings and safety trainings, and learning new bicycle skills.

Read the full case study here. 

To learn more about the Trips for Kids project, visit: www.sienayc.org/trips-for-kids/biking-advocacy