by Natalie Cadranel
One upside to a lagging economy is that it encourages people to become more resourceful and creative about how they spend their time and money. After a recent move to Oakland, we've been inspired by the many East Bay nonprofits offering training and space to work on their own projects and enjoy the gratifying feeling of learning how to do everything from wrench bikes to mend clothes or create their own holiday presents for family and friends. Not only are these hands-on activities a great chance to learn valuable skills and get involved with the community, but they also offer affordable alternatives for those with less and less disposable income.
The Bikery, a new Cycles of Change non-profit community bike shop in Oakland, opened in September. They offer a range of affordable bikes for sale, repairs, classes and community events, and open shop time where folks can come in and work on their bike, or earn one through work trade hours. Not only does this shop support great programs helping kids learn about bike safety and enter earn-a-bike programs, but it offers a space for middle and high school students to learn real-world business skills when they intern in the shop.
The Bikery is hosting two events this week that offer a great way to find a bike for the right price and more.
1) Tonight (12/16) between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. join them for a silent auction, a holiday keg of beer and other nonalcoholic drinks, and snacks and baked treats!
Silent auction items to include:
- 1 Massage ($50 value)
- Basic Tune-ups at the Bikery ($30 value)
- 1 Personalized singing telegram ($50 value)
