Keiki Bike Education Program

Empowering Maui’s Youth Through Cycling

The Maui Bicycling League (MBL) is thrilled to introduce the Keiki Bike Education Program, a dynamic initiative designed to teach essential biking skills to children aged 7-13, particularly those in underserved communities and those affected by the Lahaina fires.

Our mission is to instill a lifelong love for cycling, promote physical and mental well-being, and foster environmental stewardship through engaging biking activities. With support from our donors and community partners, this program will provide children with the skills and confidence they need to ride safely and responsibly.

Why This Program Matters

• Addresses a Critical Gap: There are currently no structured bike education programs designed for keiki in Maui.
• Supports Fire-Affected Communities: After the Lahaina fire, generous donations provided 160 BMX bikes for impacted children. While a direct giveaway would only impact 160 children, the Bike Ed program will equip thousands of keiki with biking skills and safety education for years to come, creating a lasting impact beyond just bike distribution.
• Promotes Health & Safety: Biking enhances cardiovascular fitness, motor skills, and overall well-being while also teaching road safety. Additionally, it helps reduce stress, boost confidence, and improve mental health by encouraging outdoor activity and social engagement.
• Encourages Environmental Awareness: Children will learn about reducing their carbon footprint through sustainable transportation choices.

Program Highlights

Who is it for?

Children aged 7-13 from across Maui County, with a special focus on underserved communities.

What will participants learn?

• Bike Riding Skills: Balance, coordination, and motor integration
• Road Safety: Rules of the road, situational awareness, helmet use, and instilling
  responsibility for respecting the rules of the road
• Group Rides & Community Bonding: Social interaction, teamwork, and fun outdoor experiences
• Basic Bike Maintenance: Keeping bikes in good condition, promoting responsibility and independence
• Mindfulness & Mental Well-Being: Stress management and focus through cycling
• Environmental Education: Understanding biking’s role in sustainability and reducing carbon footprints

Where & When?

• Phase 1: Lahaina Intermediate School Camp Anuenue (Lahaina) – Ages 5-12 Years
• Phase 2: Expansion to schools across Maui County – Summer Program launching June 2025
• Phase 3: Multiple A+ Programs and Camps across Maui – Further expansion planned

Our 2025 Impact Goals

• Phase 1:
  • Direct Beneficiaries: 320 children (Spring Camp and Pomaikai Students)
  • Indirect Beneficiaries: 1,645 individuals (calculated as 310 x 5.3)
• Phase 2 + 3:
  • Phase 2: 950 children (YMCA A+ schools and Summer Camp)
  • Phase 3: 1,600 children (Multiple A+ Programs and Camps across Maui)
• Potential Reach:
  • 13 A+ schools, totaling around 1,080 children.
  • Estimated 1,600-2,000 children through after-school and intercession programs.
• Increased awareness of cycling’s health benefits, safety importance, and environmental impact.
• Long-term community engagement in sustainable transportation initiatives.

How the Program Works

• Partnership: Collaborating with YMCA to integrate the program into their existing after-school activities.
• Current Donors & Partners: Sovereignty Bike Company, Samueli Foundation, and other valued supporters.

Funding & Support Needed

We are seeking $103,560 for a two-year program ($51,780 per year) to cover:

✅ Instructor salaries ✅ Support staff ✅ Bike storage and maintenance ✅ Safety gear and educational materials ✅ Bike racks and infrastructure improvements

Your support will help us establish a strong foundation, allowing us to apply for further funding opportunities such as Safe Routes to School, ensuring a sustainable future for Maui’s keiki bike education.

Ways to Contribute

• Donate Today: Your financial contribution helps bring this program to life. Every dollar counts!
• Become a Sponsor: Partner with us and make a lasting impact on Maui’s youth.
• Volunteer: Teacher assistance, event organization, bike safety checks, bike repairs, and coordination.
• Spread the Word: Share our mission and help us build community support through social media campaigns, local community events, and word-of-mouth advocacy.

Join Us in Creating a Healthier, More Connected Maui

By supporting the Keiki Bike Education Program, you are investing in the future of Maui’s children—helping them develop independence, confidence, and a love for cycling that will benefit them for a lifetime.

Together, let’s create a safe, healthy, and bike-friendly Maui! Join us today by signing up for our newsletter, following us on social media, or becoming a volunteer!

Mahalo for your support!