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At Community Housing Initiatives (CHI), our dedication extends beyond providing safe and high-quality affordable housing to Iowa residents. We are equally committed to connecting residents with community initiatives and services to enrich their lives and allow them to stay stable in their housing. The recent Pedaling Possibilities fundraiser brought joy and mobility to the children at Eastwood of Ames. The fundraiser aimed to offer new bicycles to children who may not have had the opportunity to own one. The Pedaling Possibilities initiative enhances the sense of community and well-being within our affordable housing community.
We are grateful to CHI board member, John Zulk, who inspired this impactful fundraiser after recognizing the need for bikes in the Eastwood community.
Partnerships with RAGBRAI and Iowa State We Will Collective
Our first partnership for Pedaling Possibilities began during the 2023 Ames RAGBRAI event. CHI teamed up with the Iowa State We Will Collective, where we worked together to collect donations that would fund the purchase of bikes and helmets. We were thrilled to have the added bonus of George Trice (pictured below) with the Trice Legacy Foundation visit our booth and donate to the cause.
A special thank you to the Iowa State football players, who gave their time and energy to help us collect donations during the event:
- Myles Norwood
- Myles Mendeszoon
- Levi Hummel
- Caleb Bacon
- Jontez Williams
Their involvement boosted our fundraising efforts and brought more attention to the cause.
Bike Fitting Event with Bike World
Next, CHI partnered with Bike World to ensure that every child would receive a bike that was just the right fit. A bike-fitting event was hosted, where the children were measured for their new rides. This day was filled with outdoor games, snacks, bubbles, and plenty of smiles. We were excited to have the Ames Police Department come out in support, adding to the fun and sense of community. Thank you to the officers for making the day even more special!
Delivering Joy Through Bicycles
Finally, the moment we had all been working toward arrived. Through the incredible generosity of Variety – The Children’s Charity, we were able to provide bikes to 21 Eastwood kids at no cost to their families. The excitement and joy on the children's faces when they received their bikes was absolutely priceless.
A huge thank you to Variety for donating all 21 bikes and to everyone who supported the Pedaling Possibilities fundraiser. These bikes will bring not only fun but also a sense of freedom and adventure to the children of Eastwood.
At CHI, we are grateful for the partnerships and community support that made these events possible. Together, we were able to bring the joy of biking to children who will now create memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you to everyone involved in Pedaling Possibilities!
