Richmond Cycling Corps (RCC) has powered our middle school Biking elective for as long as we can remember. Program Director Matt Kuhn says he “just loves being with the kids”—and it’s easy to see as he shows up each week to teach, mentor, and ride with our students.

Never been on a bike? No problem. Matt and his team meet kids where they are–staying back to teach a student how to pedal before venturing out. And if that doesn’t do the trick, they hop on the back of a tandem bike.

For students like 7th-grader Jalen, pictured above, the class has been especially meaningful. He learned how to ride a bike at nine, cruising around Church Hill, Libbie Hill, and Fulton with friends who “just wanted to stay out of trouble.” He loves trying tricks—wheelies and jumps—and spending time with Mr. Matt, who he’s known for four years. Programs like RCC—and mentors like Matt, who show up week after week—create lasting connections and uplifting experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.

The mission of Richmond Cycling Corps is to educate and empower the lives of Richmond youth living in the heart of the East End by constantly pivoting towards relevant outreach.