This past weekend, Black Young Professionals of Detroit supported the Neighborhood Service Organization ‘s (NSO) annual “Handle Bars for the Homeless” event. Last weekend we enjoyed beautiful weather as riders came from all over Southeast Michigan to support NSO’s mission to provide critical services and empower the community’s most vulnerable. We had an amazing turnout, with 50+ volunteers for set-up on August 5th and for the main event on August 6th. BYP’s presence was known throughout the Woodrow Wilson/Rosa Parks area and the Bell Building property; the parking lot was filled with a sea of blue t-shirts ready to answer the call to service. Nearly 300 riders participated in this year’s event. These bikers were greeted and cheered on by our volunteers from start to finish.
We cannot say enough about our volunteers, without them, this event would not have run as smoothly as it did. One thing is for certain; no biker went thirsty or hungry on our watch. Each volunteer carried ice cold water, offering bottles to any biker in sight. A crowd of this magnitude can be intimidating or daunting to navigate, our volunteers minimized the space for confusion; at every turn there was someone positioned to guide bikers into the right direction. The organization and leadership shown throughout the weekend was definitely a source of pride.
After we broke down all of the tables, tents and cleaned-up; we broke bread! BYP provided a catered volunteer appreciation feast. The positivity of the day continued to flow as volunteers bonded over this awesome experience and got to know one another.
We will continue to provide more opportunities to volunteer. Stay tuned to our website, LIKE our Facebook page, and be sure to become a member if you haven’t already!
To learn more about the Neighborhood Service Organization, visit their website at, https://www.nso-mi.org
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