Busse Woods Biking Program – Agency Information Welcome to Chicago Voyagers’ biking program. We are looking forward to working with you and the youth from your program. This document contains things which we thought would be helpful to know about the program. Please contact your Program Leader with additional questions.

What is it like?

This is a 2.5 to 3 hour day program but may be combined with any one of our other programs. Biking includes a basic session on bicycle safety, mechanics, techniques, and a free wind wash! Bicycling also provides us with an opportunity to cover more distance than a hike which means you have more time to explore and enjoy the natural environments around the city. We will also have the time to participate in some team building activities.

Do my youth need to know how to bike ride?

Yes. But, there is an option to have two adults stay back to teach your youth how to ride. This needs to be arranged at least two weeks in advance unless you are supplying the adults.

What about safety?

Youth can fall off a bicycle and get something like a scraped knee. It is important that everyone follow our safety instructions.

How many youth can attend?

This program accommodates 10 youth and 1-2 chaperones. We encourage you to bring as many youth as is allowed since it makes the cost per youth less.

What do we need to bring?

Everyone should bring:  The CV release-English/Spanish (if they haven’t given us one before this year)  Jacket if weather is cool (we will be outside the whole time)  Sunscreen  Sunglasses  Shoes or sandals with a heel strap, NO flip flops

Should the youth bring cell phones?

Our program is about doing something different and giving teens a break from their regular life so they can focus on their personal growth. Therefore, we’d prefer teens not use their cellphones during our program. You can choose to collect them, or ask teens not to bring them. If cell phone use becomes a problem, we might ask your help in getting them put away.

What does Chicago Voyagers supply?

We supply bicycles, helmets, water bottles, and rain gear. We also supply an energy bar snack.

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Where do we meet?

Program begins at the Rolling Meadows Public Storage @ 2401 Lois Dr (click for directions). Please park on the street. We will be right inside and will be on the lookout for you. Call your program leader if no one greets you. We will fit bikes and helmets at the storage and ride two blocks to the trail. Please have everyone arrive dressed for the weather.

How about transportation?

You are responsible for transporting youth and adults. We have a group purchasing discount with Enterprise which you are welcome to use if you need to rent a vehicle. We can also pick you up and drop you offer for an additional fee.

What is the agenda?

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Meet at bike storage Fit bikes and helmets and talk about safety Ride a couple blocks down side streets to the Busse bicycle trail. Stop along the way for water, snack, and a teambuilding game Discussions about what you are learning and how to improve yourself

What is expected of my teens?

We expect everyone to abide by these rules:

What about weather?

We will seek shelter if a storm comes through and can also provide rain jackets if needed. Generally, we can work around rain. Our staff will be watching the weather and will contact you if severe weather is likely.

Who is our Program Leader?

You will be contacted by your program leader two weeks in advance. If you do not hear from him or her, contact Bernie at [email protected].

1. Respect each other, the natural world and our equipment (no put downs, no interrupting). 2. Try your best & help where there is work to do. 3. Support and encourage each other. 4. Be honest and speak up if you have an idea or if something is bothering you. 5. Things said in the group stay in the group (except for mandated abuse reporting).

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