NEWS RELEASE
GUELPH COALITION FOR ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION
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Highlight: Local students launch bike lending program; GCAT and Guelph Girls Gays and Theys Bike Club collaborate for another fun event! These slow-paced, family-friendly rides are the perfect way to explore parts of the city and see some incredible Halloween decorations.
Grab your bikes and costumes and get ready for a unique, fun-filled Halloween event! The Guelph Coalition for Active Transportation (GCAT) and the Guelph Girls Gays and Theys Bike Club invite you to two nights of guided bike tours through some of Guelph’s best-decorated Halloween houses. This free event is perfect for all ages, offering a safe and exciting way to celebrate the season on wheels. Everyone of all ages is welcome to join with any active or mobility wheels!
Student-led Bike Lending Program:
A special shout out to the students at Bishop Macdonell High School, who are launching a bike lending program for local youth! Thanks to funding from the City of Guelph’s Youth Climate Action Fund, youth without bikes can still take part. Test rides are also available for those not quite ready for the full event. Registration and parental permission are required, and more details on how to sign up for a bike are available through the Catholic School Board and Guelph Youth Council.
This is a perfect example of how youth leadership can spark real change in the community. Through their hard work and dedication, the students have created a way for youth without bikes to still participate in these Halloween rides—ensuring that no one is left out of the fun!
This program isn’t just about lending bikes; it’s about empowering youth to take an active role in shaping their community’s future. Whether it’s organizing bike rides, promoting sustainability, or creating opportunities for their peers, these students are showing that young leaders have the power to make a lasting impact. By supporting initiatives like this, we’re not only investing in the future of active transportation but also in the next generation of community builders.
When we give young people the tools to lead, we foster a culture of engagement and responsibility that benefits everyone. These students are showing the community what’s possible when we come together to create opportunities for all—on two wheels or more!
Trick or Treat and Give Back!
During both rides, participants are invited to bring candy or monetary donations to help build Halloween care packages for the youth at Wyndham House Youth Emergency Shelter. Donations are optional—only give if you can! It’s a wonderful way to share the spirit of Halloween and support local youth in need.
Night Two Highlights: New Protected Bike Lanes!
On October 30, the second night of the tour, riders will get the chance to experience a portion of Guelph’s new protected bike lanes on Silvercreek Road. It’s the perfect opportunity for families to try the new infrastructure with the confidence of being a part of a group. Bike lanes build community: They connect neighborhoods, create safe pathways for all ages, and bring families together in fun and healthy ways.
Event Details:
Night #1
📅 Date: Oct. 24, 2024
📍 Meet-Up Location: Bishop MacDonell High School, 200 Clair Rd W, Guelph, Ont. N1L 1G1
🕕 Start Time: 6 p.m.
🚴 Guided Ride: Rolls out at 6:45 p.m.
Night #2
📅 Date: Oct. 30, 2024
📍 Meet-Up Location: Our Lady of Lourdes High School, 54 Westmount Rd, Guelph, Ont. N1H 5H7
🕕 Start Time: 6 p.m.
🚴 Guided Ride: Rolls out at 6:45 p.m.
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