Best Friends and Bicycles

Needless to say, it was a tough year for anyone to make new friends. But here is a story where two girls not only became best friends, but also each others cheerleader when it came to learning how to ride a bike. 

When Maricela transferred to Hamilton school in 2021, she did not know anyone. It can be difficult to make new friends at a new school, especially in a pandemic. But Angela, a confident 4th grader, quickly befriended the "newbie" and the two have been best friends since. 
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They signed up for the summer Mobile program together even though Maricela did not know how to ride and, to be honest, Angela was not much more skilled than her friend. Maricela was tight lipped at first, quiet and focused, but our staff quickly learned that was not her true nature. 

As she became proficient on the bike she happily shifted to being more comfortable sharing her excitement. She was bright, focused, inquisitive, and was eager to learn everything about riding a bike. 

As Maricela was learning, Angela was there to encourage her. Angela’s support helped foster Maricela’s confidence more on the bike and in a leadership role. On her last session she proudly led the entire group for a couple of laps around the large playground. 

Bicycles bring people together, provide space for connection and teach us how to lead and support each other. Maricela and Angela’s story is an amazing example of just that. 

Keep your eyes open for our expanding mobile workshop! You can contact Jonathan Levaggi [email protected] for more information.

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