Jim Walker
After the weeks events, it is clear there is a compassionate and charitable side of the Oregon cycling community, but it is also evident that there needs to be an organizational structure that assures appropriate giving.
Such a structure is already in existence with two organizations:
The Community Cycling Center.
1700 NE Alberta Portland, OR 97211 Office 503.288.8864 Shop 503-287-8786 Email: info@communitycyclingcenter.org
Each year they give away 2500 to 3000 bike. In December alone, they give away 500 bikes to three to eight year old children.
Fittingly, there is also the Brett Jarolimek Memorial Fund which is sponsored and administered by the Bicycle Transportation Alliance (BTA), under its charter as a 501 C-3 nonprofit organization. Donations made to the Brett Jarolimek Memorial Fund will be used: to support the cause of bicycle safety through strategic partnerships and direct support of projects intended to 1) enhance motorist awareness and education, 2) enhance the awareness, visibility and education of bicyclists, and 3) enable bicycle safety infrastructure projects on a selected basis. This will include funding of grassroots projects initiated by individuals in the community.
We all work hard for the incomes that we earn, and it is reasonable that we expect our charitable contributions to be valued accordingly. The infrastructure is already in place with these two organizations, OBRA doesnt need to duplicate it.