Makulinski Family Foundation Partners With The League of American Bicyclists
Do you love bicycling as much as we do? Here at the Makulinski Family Foundation, adopting sustainable change isn't just a cause—it's a lifestyle. That's why MFF has teamed up with the American League of Bicyclists, a nonprofit organization that promotes environmentally friendly biking and cycling safety for all.
The Mission of the American League of Bicyclists
To create a movement that promotes bicycling, the American League of Bicyclists aspires to create a Bicycle Friendly America. The organization strives to create safer, healthier, and environmentally cleaner communities through education, advocacy, and promotion.
One core tenet of the organization is teaching Americans the advantages of adopting a bicycling lifestyle. In addition to the benefits it offers our planet, riders enjoy a plethora of health perks ranging from weight loss to reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes. The League of American Bicyclists hopes to create a world where everyone can reap the benefits of riding bikes by promoting a bicycling movement across the nation.
The History of the League
AFounded in 1880, the League of American Bicyclists is the oldest bicycling advocacy organization in America. In its early years, the League lobbied for better roads and laws to improve cycling safety. In 1955, the League introduced the country's first educational program aimed at teaching cyclists how to bike safely on the road.
Today, the League of American Bicyclists comprises a network of more than 300,000 members and affiliate advocacy organization supporters across the country. The organization works to improve conditions for cyclists through advocacy and education. The League also provides support for cyclists of all ages and abilities, from beginners to experienced riders.
Achievements and Leadership
Through its efforts, the League of American Bicyclists has made great strides in creating a more bike-friendly America.
The National Bike Summit
The League of American Bicyclists is the founder of the National Bike Summit. This event brings together cyclists, advocates, and change-makers to discuss the state of bicycling in America. The Summit is the largest gathering of bike advocates in the country. It provides an opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest trends in the industry, network with other cyclists, and advocate for change.
Bicycle Friendly America Program
The League's Bicycle Friendly America Program is the nation's leading effort to create more bike-friendly communities. The program provides tools that rate states, cities, and businesses on their ability to accommodate cyclists. To date, the Bicycle Friendly America program has rated over 2,000 communities and businesses.
The League of American Bicyclists is making significant progress in creating a more sustainable, healthier, and bike-friendly America.
National Bike Month
The League of American Bicyclists celebrates National Bike Month in May each year. This month-long celebration is an excellent opportunity for cyclists to get out and ride and for communities to show their support for bicycling. National Bike Month culminates with National Bike Challenges such as Bike to Work Week and Bike to Work Day, when cyclists across the country are encouraged to ride their bikes to work.
MFF Highlight: The League of Michigan Bicyclists
The League of Michigan Bicyclists is a prime example of the League's most profound advances in action. The League of Michigan Bicyclists is a nonprofit organization that has made significant efforts to improve conditions for cyclists in Michigan through advocacy and education.
The League of Michigan Bicyclists was instrumental in promoting Michigan's first Vulnerable Road User law, which protects cyclists and pedestrians from aggressive driving. The League also offers a range of resources for cyclists, including educational materials and support for
Makulinski Family Foundation Impact and Support
The League of American Bicyclists is working hard to make America more bike-friendly. Since 2013, the Makulinski Family Foundation has contributed over $200,000 in funding to general support and goaled events such as the National Bike Challenge and annual giving challenges. We're proud to be a part of the movement to create a Bicycle Friendly America by supporting the work of the League of American Bicyclists, and we hope you'll join us in supporting the League's efforts.
If you love biking and want to help preserve our beautiful planet, consider joining the League or making a tax-deductible contribution to their cause.
- Article by Amanda Kern (June 2022)