Wish for Wheels

$20,839 raised by 40 donors

83% complete

$25,000 Goal

We Build More Than Bikes

Every child deserves the freedom, confidence, and joy that comes with riding a bike.

For many children, their first bike is more than a childhood milestone. It’s an opportunity to explore, build independence, develop confidence, and experience the simple joy of being a kid.

At Wish for Wheels, we believe every child deserves that opportunity.

Founded in Colorado, Wish for Wheels brings communities together to provide brand-new bikes, helmets, and locks to second graders at Title I schools. Through our signature Bike Build & Give™ program, we connect corporate partners, volunteers, and local schools to create experiences that make a lasting impact.

And while our work has grown nationwide, Colorado will always be home.

Your Gift Makes a Difference

A donation of $250 provides a child with a brand-new bike, helmet, and lock, giving them the tools to ride safely, explore their neighborhood, and build confidence along the way.

But the impact goes beyond the bike itself.

For some children, it’s their very first bike. For others, it’s a new sense of independence, an opportunity to spend more time outdoors, or the pride of learning something new.

As one parent shared:

“His bike is his pride and joy. He’s way more careful with it and makes sure to always lock it up. It’s taught him responsibility and he takes care of personal items more since he's received the bike." - Parent

And from a teacher who witnessed the impact firsthand:

“After students receive their bikes, the ones who know how to ride already feel empowered to show off their skills and use their new mode of transportation before and after school. We have many students who are seen riding their WFW bikes back to the playground after school or through the neighborhood with friends. Students who did not already know how to ride bikes really experience a great sense of perseverance and pride in the instruction and practice that happen during the Build and Give event. Students often use this day as their first example in future years of, ‘When did you persevere?’” - Teacher

Give the Gift of Possibility

This Colorado Gives Day, you can help us bring the joy of a brand-new bike to more children across our home state.

Whether you give $25, $50, $225, or any amount meaningful to you, your generosity helps create opportunities for children to ride, grow, and thrive.

Because when we give a child a bike, we’re giving them so much more.

Giving Activity

Mission

Wish for Wheels strengthens children, families, and communities by providing second graders at Title I schools with brand-new bikes, helmets, and locks creating opportunities for confidence, independence, and joy.

Background Statement

Since 2004, Wish for Wheels has been creating opportunities for children and strengthening communities through the gift of a brand-new bike.

What began with a simple wish from our founder, Brad Appel, has grown into a nationwide movement. More than 100,000 bikes later, that wish continues to inspire confidence, independence, and joy in children across the country.

While we partner with companies and organizations nationwide through our signature Bike Build & Give™ program, our roots remain firmly planted in Colorado.

Denver-born and proud, we’re committed to expanding our impact right here at home. With your support, we can bring more brand-new bikes, helmets, and locks to second graders at Title I schools across Colorado, creating opportunities for children to ride, explore, and thrive.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Wish for Wheels

other names

WFW

Year Established

2005

Tax id (EIN)

59-3803048

Category

Youth Development

Organization Size

Large Organization

Address

7794 E Hampden Circle
Denver, CO 80237

Service areas

Denver County, CO, US

Phone

720 295 1515

Links