The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Group creates bicycling program
The Ambassador Brothers of Lorain County created a new program to invite community members and school age youth to engage with the organization and encourage physical activity.
The group organized a weekly event July 1 featuring community bike rides throughout Elyria that last about two or three miles.
Stephen Gettis, 44, president of Ambassador Brothers of Lorain County, said the weekly bike rides will continue depending on community involvement.
“We want to engage with the community and invite them and children out to ride with us and see what we’re about,” Gettis said.
Originally, the group started on the south side of Elyria and plans to continue with the other parts of the city and eventually through other cities.
“It gives the community a chance to see positive images and get good exercise,” Gettis said.
During the first ride, Mayor Frank Whitfield attended and Gettis said he encouraged other community leaders and supporters to take part in the weekly rides.
“Seeing community leaders do something positive can inspire the youth,” Gettis said.
He wants to connect with youth and show them they have people in the community to look up to, he said.
“The goal is we’re trying to reach people and be available to hear what they have to say,” Gettis said. “You start a dialogue. What’s going on? How do you guys feel? Those are questions we can ask because we care.”
With forming relationships with the community and youth, Gettis said, he hopes the children see the members as trustworthy.
“We’re trying to create a space for young people,” he said. “I can have conversations with kids about the future, and it won’t be from a stranger; it comes from someone they know who cares.
“We establish a relationship so they know I’m trying to help them and not correct them,” he said.
The next bike ride will take place July 22. The group will meet in the West
Recreational facility parking lot at 7:15 p.m. and take off at 7:30 p.m.
Water will not be provided; bringing water and fruit is encouraged.
Event sponsor Sunnyside Toyota will supply face mask to all riders.
If community members find themselves without a bicycle, they can apply for assistance through an online document which can be found on their Facebook page.