The Arlington Heights Noon Rotary Club has collected and redistributed more than 700 bicycles to a variety of community groups over the last five years. Most of the bikes are distributed through local organizations such as the village of Arlington Heights Human Services Department, Catholic Charities, the Cross and Crown Church support program for the homeless and Faith Community Homes.

“These bikes will really help our clients who don’t have cars get to work and improve their employability,” said Sister Carrie Miller.

The program began as an offshoot of the Rotary Club’s Holiday Gift Program, where the club buys gifts for needy local residents.

“We found that a lot of kids wanted bikes, but they needed clothes and other essential items more,” said Rotarian Ron Crawford.

Along with John Amling, former owner of Amling’s Bikes in Arlington Heights and Niles, they decided to begin collecting used bicycles that could be repaired and given back to residents of the community.

“We are very proud that we have been able to provide bikes for people who need transportation to work as well as healthful recreation for kids,” said Amling.

Carol Jancek, human services coordinator for Arlington Heights, said, “Rotary’s program has helped us provide bikes for transportation so that our clients can get to work and/or find new jobs. It has made a big difference in their lives.”

The program owes its success to supporters such as the Arlington Heights Police Department and Village Bank, which provides storage space.

As the program has grown, so has the need for donated bikes. If you have an unused adult or child’s bike that you would like to donate, contact a member of the Rotary Club or email Ron Crawford at rfc319@ameritech.net to schedule a pickup.