Recycle Bicycle at 1722 Chestnut St., Harrisburg
A new community partnership will let Harrisburg University students get hands-on experience in their wheelhouse of interest.
The college is teaming up with Recycle Bicycle in Harrisburg to provide students with education, internships and free bikes.
“I hope that all of our students take advantage of the opportunity,” said Dr. A.J. Merlino, associate vice president of Student Professional Development & Experiential Learning.
The partnership will allow all HU students access to bikes from Recycle Bicycle, which provides free bikes and maintenance assistance to the Harrisburg area community.
According to Merlino, who also coordinates HU’s Cycling Esports Club, more students are becoming interested in sustainability. Giving them access to a bike addresses their desire to live more eco-friendly, explore the city and save money, he said.
“I think that’s really the big goal, giving our students accessibility,” he said.
In addition to the free bikes, Recycle Bicycle will also give students a space to bring their classroom knowledge into the community.
According to Ross Willard, the organization’s founder, education is at the heart of their mission. Volunteers and staff at Recycle Bicycle will work with students on projects like creating bike repair stations around the city and building a computer program to keep track of bike inventory, among other initiatives. However, Willard is open to any ideas students might have for projects.
“We are a great resource,” Willard said. “We are a ready-made experimental lab for students. We want them to be able to use us to expand their world and help our community.”
Merlino said that he expects students studying digital marketing, manufacturing and environmental science, among other areas of study, to be involved in the partnership.
HU students may also hold events in conjunction with Recycle Bicycle to bring awareness to the organization’s importance in the community.
“Being good partners and neighbors is important,” Merlino said. “And who knows what this will allow students to do.”
For more information on Harrisburg University, visit their website. To learn more about Recycle Bicycle, visit their website.
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