The holidays are here, and as a careful nudge to remember the real reason of the season, Giving Tuesday is an opportunity to support the cycling organizations in your community. 

You might have a long shopping list of family, friends, and even fellow cyclists this year, but don’t forget to save even just a few bucks for the folks who support your passion for cycling. Some of the most crucial cycling advocates in any town or city are small non-profits that rely on fellow cyclists and small businesses to keep rolling. From youth cycling teams to organizations that build and protect the trails, this is a great time to give. 

By donating, you’re investing in the groups that help cycling grow and become more inclusive. By supporting groups like the League of Michigan Bicyclists or Norte, you can help make cycling safer by helping them bring legislation and smart design to the streets. You can help businesses incorporate more ride sharing, cycling, and public transportation to the workplace with a donation to Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition. Love riding in the woods? Help NMMBA, CRAMBA, WMMBA, or your local trail association to offer non-motorized recreational experiences by becoming a member! 

Giving back doesn’t just make you feel good, and it isn’t just about the money. By donating, you add you name and support to these groups, which is often just as valuable to the mission. Make sure they’ve added you to their email or newsletter list and stay informed and engaged about the issues that matter to you. No matter what you feel strongly about, there’s likely a group working to improve and enhance that aspect of cycling in your community. Find them, support them, and be a part of bringing safe, accessible, fun cycling to 2020 and beyond!