Bike and Build volunteers are busy with Springs home
Bike and Build volunteers pedal across the country, stopping just long enough to build a house with Habitat of Humanity.
This week, they are in northeast Colorado Springs framing, roofing and putting vinyl siding on a home. They call it a “Blitz Build.” When the cyclists pull out of town on Sunday, the house will be ready for contractors to install wiring, plumbing and drywall.
Habitat for Humanity will sell the home at cost to a family living in substandard housing.
The 32 volunteers are college students or recent graduates. Each biker raises $4,000 for living expenses and building materials. Costs for both total $150,000.
The group embarked on May 29 from Charleston, S.C. and will wrap up in Santa Cruz, Calif. on Aug. 14.
This year, Bike and Build is sending 300 riders in eight teams on similar missions.
Pedaling about 80 miles each travel day makes members experienced cyclists, but their purpose is greater.
“We are raising awareness about affordable housing,” said Sarah Kennelley, 22, a biology major at the University of Virginia. En route, they also sponsor bike clinics for kids, volunteer at Boys & Girls clubs and host presentations to spread the word about their cause.
Patrick Anderson has a laugh while hanging out next to his tent Thursday, July 9, 2009, in line at the Cinemark Theatre on Powers Boulevard for the latest Harry Potter movie. Photo by Mark Reis, The Gazette