Empower the youth through cycling.

Riding a bike is more than just a way to get to school; it can be a step toward independence and a healthier life. Youth en Route is a Calgary Non-profit looking to change the lives of youth. They want to go beyond just getting kids from point A to point B on two wheels; they want to help youth gain independence and confidence. Laura Shutiak, the executive director of Youth en Route says “ It started with my frustration at my teens who always texted me for rides, when I wanted them to be more independent. Moms get tired of being a taxi service, and I felt there were healthier and faster ways for them to get around – by bike”

What’s the Bike (Big) deal?

Youth En Route envisions a world where every young person can ride and access a bicycle. They plan to give every child the opportunity to ride safely and confidently. Laura says “Biking connects kids to their community in ways that sitting in a car never will. Getting somewhere independently teaches kids problem-solving, and resilience and gives them the confidence to take on anything”

Youth En route provides opportunity for

● Resiliency
● Improved mental health
● Improved physical health
● Independence
● Being outside more
● A sense of accomplishment learning something new

Adaptive tricycles

They also have over 40 adaptive bicycles that can give special needs children opportunities
they didn’t have before. For some of these special needs students, this may be the only mode of
transportation that they can do independently. Special needs programs are being supported by
Youth en Route and the  Rotary Club of Stamped Park, they have recently donated $11,000
which has allowed for 13 more bikes, pedals and helmets for special needs programs

Where do I go to donate?

You can go to Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society and donate to their bike shed, from there the
bikes are fixed and added to their fleets. Donating these bikes helps the community, and you
receive a tax receipt for the suggested value of the bike. Help your community today and donate
your old bikes and/or bike parts!

This project showed me that there are so many more people trying to help the community than I thought. It was impactful to see an organization try to make a difference in young people and inspire independence in them. I hadn’t realized how many kids never got the chance to ride a bike due to having no access, it was great to see Youth En Route give them the opportunity. I hope that the video I make allows for more people to be able to see the difference this organization can make in today’s youth, by giving them more transportation options and the ability to get somewhere themselves. My partner will be able to use this video to show more people that they need more help and funding to be able to reach more students. This will make it easier for them to show parents and teachers the benefits of these adaptive bikes, and allow for more special needs students to try something they haven’t. I learned that there are a lot of situations where students with special needs are directed in everything they do and that having the opportunity to ride an adaptive bike all by themselves may be the first time they can enjoy physical activity with no direct hands-on help.