Firebird Community Cycle is a not-for-profit bicycle repair shop making a significant impact in Barrie.
Lead mechanic Grant Wilson spoke of the win, saying, “It was announced at our board meeting and you could truly feel the excitement and honour in the room.”
“Over the years, we've won several awards, including recognition from the city. It's a tremendous boost of confidence to have those outside our work recognize its value,” he shared.
Operating year-round through a partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association, Firebird is dedicated to making cycling accessible, affordable and safe for everyone.
“We help people from all walks of life access bicycles. Their sense of gratitude and excitement is infectious,” Wilson said. “When people happily donate their precious old bike, knowing it will go to a good home, it is truly powerful. Witnessing people learn to ride at Firebird is heartwarming.”
“For someone without a car, a bicycle means mobility. It allows them to navigate our car-centric city under their own power. People can save time and money, leading to a marked improvement in their quality of living. It opens doors to employment and housing. Active transportation enhances health and reduces carbon emissions sustainably,” he continued.
Founded about 10 years ago as a lunchtime program for at-risk youth at Barrie Central Collegiate, Firebird uses a unique pay-what-you-can model that allows individuals from all walks of life to engage with cycling, promoting physical activity and community connection.
At the heart of Firebird’s mission is the goal to mobilize people through bicycles while fostering education around bike safety.
Their programming not only brings joy to riders but also emphasizes environmental sustainability by repairing and redistributing bicycles, successfully diverting countless bikes from landfills.
A standout initiative is Revolution, Barrie’s first female-specific program, which empowers women by teaching bike repair skills.
Participants earn a refurbished bike, which is then sold at affordable prices during community events like the spring sale.
Firebird also collaborates with local elementary schools to teach basic bicycle mechanics, integrating literacy and numeracy skills.
This creates a safe space for youth to build lifelong skills and friendships.
Participants gain hands-on experience in bike repair, customization and group rides while developing customer service skills and confidence.
“Currently, we operate our D-I-Y shop one day a week out of three shipping containers. I envision moving our operations into a space where we can run year-round, five days a week,” stated Wilson.
Firebird Community Cycle is a leader in Barrie’s sports and recreation scene, setting a high standard for environmental and community development.
Recognized with the City of Barrie’s Active Transportation Award and funding from the World Wildlife Fund, Firebird continues to inspire and mobilize, showcasing the power of grassroots initiatives in promoting active transportation.
“Firebird runs on the goodwill of many partners,” shared Wilson. “I want to thank CMHA for donating their space, the individuals who take the time to seek us out and donate bikes and our volunteers whose hard work keeps us rolling.”
The Sports and Recreation Award is presented to an individual or group who has contributed to the strength of a sport in the community by way of inspiring people, establishing a program, mentoring a team or individual to extraordinary accomplishments, or setting an example for others to carry.
Congratulations, Firebird Community Cycle!
This award is proudly sponsored by Kempenfelt Windows and Doors.
