Board of Directors member, Paul Krystyniak explains, “Southwest Rides and Skateboard Shop sells reconditioned bicycles and new and used skateboards, bike accessories, helmets, apparel and other items of interest in the biking/skateboarding community in Detroit. The important part Southwest’s mission is the emphasis on helping young people. The shop operates an Earn-a-Bike Program where local teenage boys and girls repair bikes, learn mechanical and business skills and interact with other youths to stay active during the summer months. At the end of the Program, the reconditioned bike is his or hers to keep. This provides a significant accomplishment for young people who otherwise could not afford a bicycle.”
Krystyniak adds, “Southwest Rides also employs young people as apprentices to help in the shop and learn the retail end of the business. This experience establishes good work habits and helps to prepare them for future jobs as adults.”
In addition to initiating the operation of Southwest Rides Bike and Skateboard Shop, the Urban Neighborhood Initiatives (UNI) organization operates the All Saints Neighborhood Center which serves families in the area with classes and youth activities. UNI has also created or renovated four local parks and is currently working to convert the former Moose Lodge on Longworth into a literacy center and a neighborhood court to serve the local justice system in Detroit.
For more information n on Southwest Rides, visit swridesdetroit.com or contact the shop at 313-748-8330 or email at bikeshop@unidetroit.org. Used bikes are a welcomed donation to help support the shop. Contact Southwest Rides and they will bick up the bike. Donations are tax-deductible.
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