As the nation’s largest statewide bicycling nonprofit, Cascade serves bike riders of all ages, races, genders, income levels, and abilities throughout the state of Washington. Since 1970, Cascade has been a force in developing Seattle’s biking community, network, and advocacy efforts; they continue to positively influence local communities today!
Check out the following Cascade projects and ways you can get involved:
Pedaling Relief Project:
When the pandemic hit and many families lost their source of income, Seattle residents started a grassroots effort called the Pedaling Relief Project, which delivers pedal-powered food and goods to neighbors in need.
In the early days of this effort, Cascade provided support to this project; as of May 2021, Cascade has now brought this project in house as one of their permanent cornerstone programs!
Through this effort, volunteers have biked more than 119 tons of food and personal care items out to more than 4,925 of our neighbors who are experiencing food insecurity from the White Center Food Bank, the Byrd Barr Place Food Bank, University District Food Bank, El Centro De La Raza Food Bank, Rainier Valley Food Bank, Mary’s Place, P-Patch Community Gardens, and Alleycat Acres.
Click here to get involved or support efforts with a donation!
The Major Taylor Project:
Cascade also runs The Major Taylor Project (MTP) – a year-round program focused on introducing young adults from underserved communities to the recreation of cycling and creating an inclusive culture of bicycling that will continue to future generations.
Through after-school bicycling clubs, MTP students explore their communities, build confidence and leadership skills, and discover their power to effect change. The MTP reaches more than 500 youth annually!
You can support this amazing program in several ways:
- Participate in the Ride for Major Taylor Project fundraiser on June 27, 2021 – 80% of your registration fee goes directly to the MTP! There are two route options for this ride – 26 miles and 63 miles.
- Purchase supplies from the MTP Wishlist and send them to Cascade.
- Donate directly to the Major Taylor Project.
Bike Everywhere Month:
Every May, Cascade hosts the Bike Everywhere Challenge and accompanying events to support, encourage, and celebrate all things bicycling! Cascade is working to help to break down barriers to biking for all ages, races, genders, abilities, and body types – they have some great stories and events:
- Read about Seattle resident Anita Elder, who “exemplifies how an electric bike can transform someone’s life. One year after buying her first e-bike, the 62-year-old Seattle resident is happier and healthier than she has been in years.”
- Gain key self-sufficiency skills virtually, for free, in Cascade’s virtual “Maintenance for Every Commuter,” Class. Tues May 11th at 5:30 pm
- Join Cascade for a free screening of the new “All Bodies on Bikes” documentary followed by a Q&A with the film’s stars and filmmakers. Thurs, May 20 at 12pm
At Commute Seattle, we work towards helping more people get around the city safely and sustainably – we’re grateful for Cascade’s work and their ongoing partnerships with the community, as they are a key part of these efforts!