Building Community Through Biking

BY DAVID GONZALEZ | DIRECTOR, ECONOMIC INITIATIVES

Brandt Kingsley’s infectious energy is only matched by his tireless dedication to Pedal 4 Peace, a non-profit he founded. Pedal 4 Peace came to fruition via a Ride Against Violence that Kingsley embarked on in 2017. A nearly 30-hour bike ride took him to Ocean City, Maryland and through that journey, and a few conversations, Pedal 4 Peace was born.

Kingsley leads the organization with an approach that the kids tell him and the volunteers/board what they want. Kingsley notes, “the kids know what they want and what will help them. When given the opportunity to speak up, they’ll let you know what will be meaningful to them.” Suggestions from the kids have included camping trips, ways to develop accountability, opportunities to fix bikes and even give some away to other kids who want them. To date, the group has given away nearly 500 bikes.

The kids know what they want and what will help them. When given the opportunity to speak up, they’ll let you know what will be meaningful to them.

- BRANDT KINGSLEY, PEDAL 4 PEACE

Pedal 4 Peace has expanded from group rides on city streets to managing a BMX track, and has garnered both national and international attention. Knowing that many of the kids have only experienced bike riding on city streets, Pedal 4 Peace introduced mountain biking. Some of the kids have developed a passion for mountain biking and even participate in competitions, creating a pivot for the non-profit. There’s a curriculum that has been developed, which runs 7 days a week. The week includes BMX academy training, mountain bike training, practice for teams, preparing for weekend travels, and middle school and high school age competitions.

All the growth has been a surprise to Kingsley, but he knows the more important mission of Pedal 4 Peace is to develop young leaders, who have goals, perspectives, and skills that prepare them to contribute to their community. Kingsley notes that “bikes are the gateway to bring the kids into the program, but through their engagement with us they learn life lessons and improve their outlook on life.”

531 W King St. | 717.881.7487 | pedal4peaceusa.com | Facebook & Instagram @pedal4peaceusa