Community Partners: Black Cultural Initiative
Black Youth Bike Camp Returns at Full Capacity | By Lawrence Hunter
Why it matters: The Black Youth Bike Camp is more than a week of riding bikes. It's an investment in confidence, connection, and healthy lifestyles for Black youth while expanding access to cycling and the outdoors.
The big picture: SHIFT Community Cycles is proud to partner with the Black Cultural Initiative (BCI) to host this free, week-long camp for Black youth ages 8–15. Together, we're removing barriers to participation and creating welcoming spaces where young people can learn, grow, and ride together.
What campers can expect:
Learn essential bike safety skills and riding techniques.
Practice basic bicycle maintenance and repair.
Participate in group rides and outdoor adventures.
Build friendships, confidence, and independence throughout the week.
Every participant receives the resources they need to succeed, including a bicycle if they don't already have one, a helmet, a bike maintenance toolkit, daily lunch and snacks, and a camp t-shirt.
By the numbers: Camp enrollment is officially full, demonstrating the strong demand for programs that center Black youth while making cycling more accessible and inclusive.
What they're saying: While many BCI events are open to everyone, the organization's programs intentionally center and uplift the Black community, creating spaces where participants feel welcomed, supported, and empowered.
What's next: Although registration has closed for this year's bike camp, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with the Black Cultural Initiative throughout the summer and beyond:
Upcoming Black Cultural Initiative Events
August 1: Food Preservation Workshop
August 15: 3rd Annual BBQ & Fish Fry
August 17–21: Black Youth Bike Camp (Enrollment Full!)
Bi-monthly: Food Distribution featuring fresh produce, culturally relevant foods, and recipes
Ongoing: Community Gardening Series focused on gardening, sustainability, and reconnecting with the land
Check out https://blackculturalinitiative.org/ for more information.
