On March 15, more than 65 students from Mark Twain Union Elementary School District and surrounding educational agencies received a brand new bike, helmet, and lock through a partnership with WeDeliver Wheels, Angels-Murphys Rotary Club, local fire agencies, and the school district during the second annual Big Bike Build.

The program, which is funded by the nonprofit WeDeliver Wheels, features volunteers from a number of organizations in the community, including fire departments, Rotarians, and cycling enthusiasts building brand new, out-of-the-box bikes for students. The district created the recommended student list for the nonprofit, which funded the bikes and managed the event in partnership with Rotarians.

Karen Curley, founder of WeDeliver Wheels, had participated in big bike builds in her corporate career in the Bay Area and had a dream to bring one to a rural setting when she retired. Presenting her vision at an Angels-Murphys Rotary Club meeting, she teamed up with Rotarian and Fire Captain Greg Taylor, who brought the idea to the school district in 2025.

“From a practical standpoint, the gift of transportation to and from school is huge for many of our kids,” said Superintendent Louise Simson.

The Angels Murphys Rotary club co-sponsors the cost of the helmets and locks and Captain Taylor recruits volunteer staff from fellow Rotarians and nearby fire service departments.