We recently were awarded a $2500 grant to do community outreach in
at-risk neighborhoods and community events. We have purchased a
bikes-at-work trailer, (6'x3' with removable sections if you don't
need as much length). We are patiently waiting its arrival and we'll
let you know how it works out. The rest of the funds will go towards
two park folding stands, two basic tool sets with the idea of sewing
some roll up tool bags, basic supplies like lube, cables, brake pads,
etc. We also have budgeted for educational material to pass out as
well as advertising so folks will know when we are going to be in
their neighborhood. We already did one event at a local universities
"Earth Day" celebration and it was a hit. A latent function of this
was PR. More than a few people told us that they had heard about the
shop and were interested in being involved but they were
nervous/intimidated/unsure as to how to actually be involved or even
come in and
work on their bike. Hopefully their speaking with us at the outreach
event alleviated some of those concerns.
As for the grant, it was from an area foundation that typically
doesn't fund overhead and is very into highly visible community
oriented projects in the 1000-4000 range. If anyone has a similar
situation and would like a copy of our grant application, contact me
and I'll be happy to share.
-Andy
FM Community Bicycle Workshop