Earn-a-Bike Program Application

Applications are accepted on a roling basis.

Please provide honest answers to the questions below, and only apply if you are able and willing to complete the program.

If you are unable to complete the program requirements, our Change a Tire, Change a Life free bike program may be a better fit. You can find out if you qualify and how to get a bike here.

We will contact you via your preferred contact method to arrange a brief phone or in-person interview if you meet the program requirements. PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL AND TEXT MESSAGES.

Thanks!

Participants will be required to complete 15 hours of work or more, depending on the bike chosen. These hours will be a combination of volunteering and specific classes on bike mechanics/repair and safe riding skills.

Participants are responsible for tracking their hours using a log sheet stored at SCB. You must be located in the Charleston, SC area to participate in this program, as it takes place at our shop located at 3310 Rivers Ave, North Charleston SC 29405.

Time commitment per individual: minimum of 15 hours total

1 hour - Fix-A-Flat/Basic Mechanics Class - every 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month
5 hours - Intro Volunteering (processing tubes, cleaning, organizing)
3 hours - Intermediate Volunteering (cruisers/single speeds and/or youth bikes)
2 hours – Advanced Volunteering (geared bikes or any bikes requiring more complex repairs)
3+ hours - Working On Your Own Bike (with mechanic assistance)

For now, volunteer hours can be completed anytime we are open, but the participant must arrive at least 2 hours before we close. Advance notice is appreciated.

*For individuals not interested in intermediate and advanced mechanical bike skills, 5 hours of volunteering can be completed at another nonprofit organization with prior approval.

Participants will receive a u-lock, a waterproof rechargeable light set, and a helmet (if available) upon completion of program.

Additional volunteer hours can be completed to earn shop credit towards bikes valued over $150 or to purchase specialty parts and accessories. (1 hour = $10)

All applicant information and answers provided below are confidential.

If you have any questions, feel free to email us at info@scbikes.org.

Name

First Name

Last Name

Organization or Agency that Referred You

Contact Information

This must be accurate so we can contact you easily. If you provide an email address and choose that as a preferred contact method, that will be how we contact you, so please check your email!

Phone number

Verify Email

Preferred Contact Method

Please select the best method(s) of contact. We prefer to use email for initial contact.

Phone call

Text

Personal Information

None of this info will be used to determine program eligibility, it is only for our records.

Age

Gender Identity/Preferred Pronouns

Please select all that apply.

He/Him

She/Her

Them/Their

Other

Prefer Not to Say

Ethnicity

American Indian/Alaska Native

Asian

Black/African American

Hispanic/Latino

Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander

White

Prefer Not to Answer

Why else are you interested in participating in the Earn-a-Bike program?

An answer is required (3 sentences or more, please). Please be as detailed as possible, as this info will help us determine which applicants to select for the program.

What type of experience do you have with RIDING bikes already?

Please select one. Your response will not impact whether or not you are admitted to the program.

I ride often or frequently

I've ridden before but not for a while

I've never ridden a bike

What type of experience do you have with REPAIRING or FIXING bikes?

Please select one. Your response will not impact whether or not you are admitted to the program.

I have a lot of experience fixing bikes and have worked in a bike shop before

I have a lot of experience fixing bikes and am self-taught

I have some experience fixing bikes (I can fix a flat, adjust brakes, and understand the basic mechanics)

I have a little experience fixing bikes (I know what some parts are called, could probably fix a flat)

I have no experience fixing bikes

Do you understand the program requirements and agree to fulfilling them if you are accepted into the Earn-a-Bike program?

Scroll back up to re-read the requirements. Please understand that if you are admitted to the program and then fail to complete the requirements, you will not receive a bike or any store credit for any volunteer hours completed. You also may not be eligible for future programs.

Yes

Is there anything else about yourself that you'd like to share?

Do you require mobility accommodations? Are you unable to stand for long periods of time? Do you have trouble paying attention, following directions, or reading/writing? Any other info about you that will help us make you feel comfortable and safe is appreciated!