BIKES FOR BOOKS

[Kayak Jack]

BIKES FOR BOOKS

Our Masonic Lodge, in Okemos Michigan, participates in our statewide program of giving bikes to school kids. It works like this.

We provide a list with seven (7) books at grade level. As the kids read, parents and teachers sign off to confirm. For each sheet completed -AND turned in, the kid gets a chance to win a bike. Some kids turn in more than one sheet. At the end of the year, we do the drawing. This week, we're visiting schools and giving away bikes.

Young school kids are bundles of concentrated energy, smiles, energy, developing manners, energy, giggles, energy, and smiles. I gotta tell you, if a kid gives you a smile, or a dog licks your hand - it's a good day.

 

[Kayak Jack]

We're almost done now. Only two more bikes to go. The looks on these kids' faces when their name is read off is priceless. And, we're hitting the targets, too.

Teachers ask if we can do more than just two grades as the program was originally designed. Score 1. Plus, two bikes hit personal targets. One boy's family couldn't afford a bike, and now he has a new one. He had a look of quiet satisfaction. Score 2. Another boy was saving up for a bike - and now he has a new one. Score 3.

I know that boats weren't mentioned here - but kids were.