As I reflect on the end of another year approaching, I feel so grateful to have been surrounded by things, people, places and activities that have kept me grounded and yet given me so much strength in times of adversity and uncertainty. One of those places/activities has been riding an indoor bike that goes nowhere at Union Three in the Channelside district. Because of U3, I’ve gained so much but what I’m really grateful to them for is introducing me to a great non-profit organization in the area- onBikes! Their mission is simple- doing their part to restore self-confidence, health and overall well-being of at-risk kids in our community. OnBikes raise funds so these kids can receive their very first bike! Some of their well known events are their “Winter Wonder” holiday ride around Tampa Bay and their build-a-bike volunteer work with various organizations. My boyfriend and I were so lucky to participate in their Bikestock event this spring with some of our U3 friends and when I tell you my heart soared seeing people of all ages riding their bikes along Bayshore and having the time of their lives with their loved ones. This year, Union Three is partnering with onBikes and will be having a holiday “slay” ride at Sparkman Wharf on Sunday, December 5! A match made in Heaven, I knew I had to sign up and not only participate in this great event but raise funds so more Tampa Bay kids can enjoy the same feeling of having their own bike. If you were anything like me, you remember what it was like to get your first bike and especially when you finally learned how to ride it without training wheels. That first taste of freedom when you take off still gives me chills, even on a studio bike. It would give me so much joy to if anyone could donate to my drive towards to gifting a child with their own bike, especially with the holidays coming up. As I get ready for my 500th(!) class at Union Three on Thanksgiving Day, I have decided to make my personal goal $500!! If you have it in your heart to support a great cause with local organization and a pretty rad human that loves to spin, feel free to check out my link below! Also if you’re in Tampa and would want to come see me ride, I will be riding at 5pm - more info to come the closer we get to the event. If you’ve made it to the end of this very long post (my sincere apologies ?), I love you for sticking around and thank you for your time! Now let’s go make some kids’ Christmas come true with a bike ❤️?