Rotary bike program passes 1,000 mark

The Arlington Heights Noon Rotary Club has collected and re-distributed more than 1,000 bicycles to a variety of community groups over the last seven years.

Seeded with Rotary Club of Arlington Heights grants, the project continues primarily through volunteer effort. Rotarian Ron Crawford works closely with John Amling, former owner of Amling's Bike Shop in Niles. Over the years, word has spread that Ron and John repair used bicycles, gaining spare parts via trade through their volunteer efforts at area bike shops.

Most of the bikes are distributed through local organizations such as the Village of Arlington Heights Human Services Department, Wheeling Township, District 25, Catholic Charities, the Cross and Crown Church's 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 in John's basement as an offshoot of the Rotary Club's Holiday Gift Program, where the club provides 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, Ron 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 the Village of 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 and Trust, who provides storage space.

As the program has grown, so has the need for donated bikes. The main source of bikes is private donation along with gifts from the Arlington Heights Police Station, Metra, and local Bike Shops. 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, rfc319@ameritech.net, to schedule a pickup.