Better Together, The Columbus Foundation’s crowdfunding platform, provides ongoing opportunities for individuals to support Columbus nonprofits as they work to raise visibility into their programming needs, rally their supporters, and find new donors. Launched in 2017, the platform has featured a number of projects in 2021 that are helping nonprofits adapt as they continue to serve their clients during COVID-19.
Over the past six months, 93 percent of Better Together projects have met or exceeded their fundraising goals (as of October 4), and more than $91,000 has been raised, which includes $12,240 in grants leveraged from the Foundation’s Center for HumanKindness.
One recent project that surpassed its fundraising goal, Bikes for All People, was launched to help Bikes for All People cover the parts and labor necessary to prepare bikes and helmets for children. Woody Patrick, Executive Director, said the nonprofit’s program has grown every year since inception, and over the past two years has seen exceptional growth.
“Keeping up with demand for bikes has been quite challenging,” he explained.
The joy of repairing these bikes is multiplied by the joy of the children who ride them. What could be better than healthier and happier kids? I am thankful to be part of this program.
WOODY PATRICK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BIKES FOR ALL PEOPLE
The organization accepts donated bikes for people of all ages, and employees and volunteers complete any necessary repairs before selling them in its bike shop or gifting them to people in the neighborhood. Patrick said they donate more than 200 children’s bikes per year and sell around 250.
“We accept used bikes of all types, refurbish when possible, and sell them at affordable prices,” said Patrick. “Sometimes a bike needs minor repair, like a chain or tire, and sometimes it is more extensive. Non-repairable bikes may yield useful parts for other bikes. Families with small children will get a free bike and helmet for each child. It is our mission, and a personal pleasure, to help families enjoy health and happiness through biking.”
BETTER TOGETHER
Better Together projects are featured on a crowdfunding platform in The Columbus Foundation’s Giving Store. Designed to fulfill the critical needs of local nonprofits, Better Together lifts up time-sensitive opportunities to improve our community together. This is where you can learn about current opportunities, quickly and easily make donations, and track each project goal in real-time.