Behind the Scenes: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
This joyful event started with two buses bringing passionate Air Canada employees to 116 Industry St. A big assembly operation started with 15 tables filled with wheels, handlebars, seats and eager hands putting it all together. Fundraising by Air Canada staff allowed LEF to purchase 165 bikes for the giveaway. The bikes came 75% built, but the volunteers worked like pros, finishing all 165 bikes in just two hours. (Correct, two hours flat!) With the amount of bikes needing unboxing, two individuals had to be dedicated to ‘cardboard duty’. Their energy and enthusiasm were incredible. Thank you to everyone who is part of this wheel of joy-giving.
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Bikes That Bring Hope
The bikes are being distributed to five LEF childcare centers, LINC clients, and Progress Place. Helmets included, of course, because safety comes first! Our Indigenous partner, Dr. Hopi Martin, is also taking some bikes to a group up north.
“Each bike is more than a gift - these are our way of building communities and connection," said Darren Duke, who leads the giveaway each year, including teaching and organizing the bike assembly process. He was joined by volunteers from LEF’s Bicycle Assembly and Maintenance and Forklift Re-Certification courses.
A Partnership That Grows Stronger Each Year
We are proud to see what can happen when organizations come together to support their communities. Mark Nasr, Vice President of Air Canada, gave a heartfelt speech during the event, highlighting the airline's commitment to this collaboration. This year's event has already set a high standard for future collaborations, and we can all be proud of the difference we've made.
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Looking Ahead
LEF is thrilled to have partners like Air Canada, whose generosity and dedication have made such a big difference in communities and children’s hearts. The future looks bright, with Air Canada already committed to next year's giveaway. This partnership reminds us that the joy of giving is one of life's most meaningful rewards. We become part of the wheels of joy that give communities opportunities to thrive. Because at the end of the day, it's not just about bikes—it's about the smiles, the freedom, and the hope they bring.
We want to express our heartfelt thanks to Air Canada, Darren Duke, LEF volunteers and staff, and everyone who made this event a total win. Your support and dedication are truly appreciated.
If you thought assembling the bikes was fun, wait until you see the smiles of the kids who get them and join us for next year's event! That's the kind of joy you can't put a price on.
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