afrol News, 3 September - African countries such as Ghana, Liberia and Uganda are earmarked as beneficiaries of the event where Bikes for the World will team up with Volunteer Alexandria to hold a colossal one-day collection of used bicycles at Bean Creative on 12 September, 2009.

The donated bikes will be reconditioned and distributed to beneficiary states’ communities, where they will improve the lives of impoverished people by helping them get to work, school and health clinics.

"Donating a used bicycle can have a profound impact," said Keith Oberg, Director of Bikes for the World. "In the United States, most Americans view their bikes as recreational. In developing countries and rural areas, bikes mean mobility, and that is a powerful gift."

Bikes for the World will ship the bikes to a partner organization overseas, most likely Costa Rica or Liberia.

The bike drive is part of the third annual Big Event, a day of service in Alexandria, and the finale of the United We Serve campaign, announced by President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama in June. The Big Event brings out youth volunteers, local non-profits, and corporate sponsors to offer "one big thanks" during "one big day" of community service.

According to the organisers of the vent, the 12 September Bikes for the World fall campaign kickoff is expected to generate more than 100 bikes. Approximately 25 bike drives to be held across Virginia, Maryland, and DC through early December are expected to net more than 4,000 bikes. Donated bikes will be shipped overseas to organizations that have partnered with Bikes for the World in Barbados, Ghana, Uganda, Panama, Costa Rica and Liberia.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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