COLUMBUS, Ohio — Franklinton Cycle Works, a local youth bike program, received a $25,000 grant from the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation and the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters. 

The Blue Jackets said the grant supports the organization's initiative called "The Great Bike Adventure," which is designed for fifth-grade students at Avondale Elementary. It introduces students to bike safety, road awareness skills and more, and it also includes a comprehensive safety course, a lesson on hand signals and rules of the road. 

"We’re proud to partner with the Central Midwest Regional Carpenters to support Franklinton Cycle Works and their amazing youth program," said Andee Cochren, executive director, Blue Jackets Foundation & Senior Director, Community Development. "The Great Bike Adventure empowers kids with confidence, independence, and lifelong safety skills. Through our Corporate Playmaker platform, we’re connecting partners with impactful community organizations to promote the health and wellness of children."

With this grant, each student in the program will receive their own bicycle and helmet. 

“Not only are we focused on building the infrastructure that pushes Columbus into the future, but we’re also committed to building up the communities in which we operate.” Said Mike Gibson, Director of Ohio for the Central Midwest Carpenters. “The CMRCC is extremely excited to partner with the Blue Jackets to support Franklinton Cycle Works. Giving children in our community the ability to create long-lasting memories with their peers is an honor.”