PEDAL 4 LIFE NFP
Cause Area
- Community
- Health & Medicine
- Sports & Recreation
- Veterans & Military Families
Location
P.O.Box 10745CHICAGO, IL 60610 United StatesOrganization Information
Mission Statement
Pedal4Life is a 501 (c) (3) that uses bicycling events and programs to support those recovering from substance use disorders (SUD). By promoting a healthier lifestyle through its Pathway2Home program; providing free bikes and safety gear. Illinois residents in recovery learn to live healthier lifestyles as productive and respected members of their communities and families.
Description
Pedal4Life was founded in 2016. We work with drug treatment centers to support their clients in the process of recovery from drug addiction. Our 6-week Pathway2Home bicycle program builds natural endorphins and repairs damaged cells. The group setting also teaches verbal communication, listening skills, and teamwork. At the end of the program, participants get to keep the bicycles, helmets, and safety gear. The bicycles provide transportation to job interviews and jobs. Many have said, "That bike gets me to work and that pays my bills."
We also invite veterans who have succeeded in recovery to serve as mentors. Moe than 1.2 million veterans have been diagnosed with addiction. Upon return from deployments, many have difficulty assimilating back to civilian life. As mentors to civilians, they feel a sense of purpose beyond the battle field. They also make new friends. Their stories of recovery demonstrate that living a full and productive life is achievable.