Bahati Foundation's Community Impact through Maryland Cycling Classic

The Bahati Foundation, in collaboration with the Maryland Cycling Classic and Kaiser Permanente, led a remarkable series of events that resonated throughout Baltimore City and Baltimore County. These community-centered initiatives brought together cycling enthusiasts, local leaders, and hundreds of children, underscoring the transformative power of cycling, teamwork, and community involvement.

A Series of Impactful Events

One of the most exciting events took place at Kaiser Permanente's Timonium location, where the community came together for a Team Bike Build event. The culmination of the week's efforts, however, took place at Battle Grove Elementary School and Holabird Academy, where 50 bikes and helmets were donated, courtesy of Kaiser Permanente and the Bahati Foundation.

These donations weren't just about providing bikes—each school also received a new curriculum focused on bike safety and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Bahati Foundation’s mission to empower young people through education and access to tools for success, encouraging healthy habits from an early age.

Collaboration at Its Best

The success of these events was made possible through a wide network of supporters and partners. Rahsaan Bahati, founder of the Bahati Foundation and a 10-time U.S. National Champion, along with U.S. Cycling Champion Maize Wimbush, lent their leadership and expertise to inspire local youth. Support from community leaders such as Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr., Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott, and representatives from Kaiser Permanente and the Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland, further amplified the reach and impact of the initiative.

Fostering a Love for Cycling and Health

For the Bahati Foundation, these events were about much more than just giving away bikes—they were about creating lasting opportunities for children to learn, grow, and adopt healthier lifestyles. By introducing a structured bike safety curriculum at both Battle Grove Elementary and Holabird Academy, the foundation hopes to instill not only the joy of cycling but also the importance of safety and well-being.

The energy and enthusiasm at these events were palpable. Local public school students and staff, along with icons like broadcasting legends Lawrence Johnson and DJ Quicksilva, and even Baltimore’s beloved Oriole Bird, all contributed to the festive atmosphere. Special thanks also go to the Giant/Liv bike shop and Under Armour, whose ongoing support helped make the event a resounding success.

A Lasting Legacy

The Bahati Foundation’s involvement in the Maryland Cycling Classic is a testament to its ongoing commitment to making a positive impact in communities through cycling and education. With strong partnerships, a deep connection to the community, and a shared goal of promoting healthy lifestyles, the foundation continues to make strides in empowering the next generation.

As Rahsaan Bahati often says, "It takes a village." The collaboration between the Bahati Foundation, Kaiser Permanente, the Maryland Cycling Classic, and the broader Baltimore community demonstrates the power of working together to create meaningful change. Through events like these, the Bahati Foundation is not only fostering a love for cycling but also laying the groundwork for a healthier, more vibrant future for Baltimore’s youth.