11 May Kids Pedaling with a Purpose Gets Underway at Trail Center

Kids Pedaling with a Purpose all-day bike rides got started May 5, with Sheridan Elementary fourth grade students enjoying a day of learning and riding on the North Western State Trail. The kids and volunteers at these early May rides are particularly resilient as they soldier through cold morning temperatures with smiles and enthusiasm.

Another example of the entire program’s durable flexibility came to light with a rather unwelcome surprise. Normally at home in Spring Lake Park, this year’s program was forced into a dramatic, last-minute change, moving the entire operation across the street to the Packy Offield Trail Center, as workers finish a long list of park renovations – all delayed by heavy snowfall.

                                            Kids Pedaling with a Purpose volunteer Max Putters gets his support vehicle ready for the day’s activities.

Program Director Cindy Okerlund didn’t blink. In typical “Mother Bike” fashion – she consulted with her core volunteers and deftly pivoted, repositioning the entire program at the Trail Center.

That’s no small feat, given the quick turnaround needed. And she left nothing to chance, particularly student safety.

Of course, none of this surprises anyone in Cindy’s orbit. They’re used to her pragmatic, fastidious nature. And it’s not as if she’s grim about any of it. Even the inconvenient, last-minute switcheroos are met with a smile and minimal fuss – but also a determined glint in her eye. It’s obvious she enjoys the challenge.

Seeing her in action – always with a smile – it’s clear why Kids Pedaling with a Purpose is so popular, revered, and successful. Cindy’s a total professional whose profound care and love for children drives this incredible, one-of-a-kind program.

Her army of loyal volunteers embody these traits, too, showing up every day to lead these children with kindness and knowledge. Cindy’s the coach, and her volunteer players enthusiastically carry out her game plan. Their adaptability and resilience has been astonishing, but not surprising.

                        Pedaling with a Purpose volunteer Mary Trout shares her knowledge and love for birding with Emmet County fourth graders.

As we watch them log another successful year of helping kids stay healthy and learn about their remarkable environment, let’s thank these people for their time, care, and commitment. They are indeed making the world a better place.

(Remember, Spring Lake Park will remain closed through mid-May, and the Trails Center’s parking space will be scarce as we accommodate Kids Pedaling with a Purpose. Neither area will be available for park-and-riders. As an alternative, the Tannery Creek Trailhead is just around the corner, behind D&W Fresh Market.)