What was your favorite childhood activity? Going to the pool? Playing little league? There is a good chance your bike took you everywhere.
Unfortunately, some kids do not have a bike to get them there. Katherine Koch- Gatch is on a mission to change that.
As the self-titled “Bike Lady,” Gatch had already been a supporter and believer of Franklin County Children’s Services. She and her husband Brian adopted their only daughter through the organization.
Her brother had started a bike-a-thon in Cleveland to donate bikes to Toys for Tots, and she knew she wanted to do the same for Franklin County Children’s Services’ Holiday Wish program.
“every kid should experience the fun and freedom a bike provides,” says Gatch.
She took it upon herself – during a busy holiday season – to collect cash, bikes, helmets and locks.
recalls. “Perfect strangers sent me checks and trusted me to go buy bikes.”
And that she did. Gatch happily tells the story of her first trip to pick up bikes at the easton Walmart. As she tried to get a donation from the store, she was informed of a lengthy and laborious process involving Walmart’s corporate office. Before she left, she had convinced the local manager to donate a free helmet for each bike she bought at the store.
Walmart donated 91 helmets last year. No letter to corporate was required.
As the season went on, Gatch contacted neighbors, friends and the Columbus cycling community. Within three weeks she had collected $15,000 worth of donations. With little effort.
Her goal for 2009? “500 bikes. Or maybe 1,000.” She thinks neither number is unrealistic.
“i honestly didn’t intend to start a charity. it started itself,” says Gatch. “i am compelled to see it continue and grow.”
Lady,” call (614) 866-8868, or e-mail bikelady2008@hotmail.com.