A Morning I Won't Forget: Reflections on Our 16th Annual Bike Drive
Every year, I wonder if we can top the last one. Every year, Milwaukee proves me wrong in the best possible way.
On Friday, April 24th, I stood at the lakefront and watched our community show up, bike after bike, donor after donor, from 8:00 in the morning until noon. As Executive Director of Rebel Reform, I've had the privilege of leading this drive since its early days. But sixteen years in, it still gives me goosebumps.
What I Saw That Morning
People came from all over. Young families. Retirees pulling bikes out of minivans. Neighbors who'd clearly dusted something off from the back of a garage. Each one of them made a choice a small one, maybe, in their day that will make an enormous difference in a child's life.
Lake Express Ferry, our incredible longtime partner, once again offered round-trip tickets aboard their high-speed ferry to Muskegon to the first 500 donors a $195 value per person, and a six-figure contribution to the mission overall. Their generosity is a huge reason this event has grown into what it is today, and I'm grateful for them every single year.
Why This Work Matters to Me
I didn't take this role because it was easy. I took it because I believe deeply that a thriving community is built one intentional act at a time. Through Rebel Reform, we've worked alongside southeastern Wisconsin nonprofits for years, from coordinating millions of face mask donations during the pandemic to putting bikes in the hands of kids who've never owned one.
But I'll be honest with you: the bike drive is my favorite. There's something uniquely joyful about it. A bike represents possibility. Freedom. The kind of childhood memory that sticks with you for life. When I think about a child riding one of these donated bikes through their neighborhood for the first time, I remember exactly why I do this work.
Come See It for Yourself
If you've never attended a Rebel Reform event, I'd love for you to join us this summer. On Saturday, June 14, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, we'll be at Kosciuszko Park Bike Day distributing hundreds of refurbished bikes directly to Milwaukee youth and their families. Come witness what this community is capable of. I promise it will move you.
From the Bottom of My Heart
To everyone who donated a bike, gave their time, or simply spread the word, thank you. You are the reason Rebel Reform exists and the reason events like this keep growing.
And to the team at Lake Express Ferry: your partnership means more than you know.
Milwaukee, you never let me down. See you in June.
— Loretta Kryshak, Executive Director, Rebel Reform