Working Bikes strengthens local and global communities by giving donated bicycles new life and redistributing them as tools for self-determination. We work toward a world where everyone has access to bicycle transportation— whether in Africa, Latin America, or Chicago—and where bicycles are the most reliable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly transportation available!
Since its inception in 1999, the amazing community of Working Bikes volunteers, staff, partners, and supporters have enabled new life for 100,000 bicycles across the globe and tens of thousands here in Chicago. Over one hundred thousand people have been empowered to access resources and opportunities that otherwise could have been out of reach – reducing waste, lessening pollution, and improving health in the process.
Working Bikes is a full service bike shop, providing community members and neighbors with affordable refurbished bicycles, accessories, and repair services. The funds raised by our retail store and service department support our nonprofit programs. These include our local donation programs, international donation program, and volunteer program. Coming to the shop? Check out our Community Agreements, guidelines for everyone who enters the space.
Local Donations
Cycle of Power
Working Bikes runs two local donation programs for adults and youth. We partner with numerous organizations to donate repaired bicycles throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
International Donations
International Partners
Working Bikes has sent over 150,000 bikes to our international partners in countries around the world, including Uganda, Albania, Mexico and more!
Local Sales
The Shop
Our warehouse houses a retail space for local bike sales and a community service department. The bikes we sell are refurbished by our production team, and the proceeds support our mission.
Working Bikes is able to do the work we do because of the generous support of hundreds of donors. We receive bikes from around the Midwest from individuals, recycling events, bike drives, and municipal groups.
Donations can be dropped-off at our warehouse,
as well as one of our partnering drop-off sites.
Check out our most recent Annual Report for updated year-end totals, community highlights, and a look into some of our accomplishments from the past year!
Strategic Plan
To see a bit about what we’re focused on and where we’re headed, check out the Strategic Plan we put out in 2023 to guide our operations.
