Obsession:bikes

James Wilson is understandably proud of the Bikes for Tykes program. James, owner of Obsession: Bikes, started the project in 2005. "We take donated kids' bikes, fix them up and then, partnering with Family Services of the North Shore, we match them up with underprivileged kids," he says. "It fits with our obsession: no child should go without a bike." James and his team start asking for donated bikes around November so that they're ready for distribution for the Christmas season. In 2013 alone, the program supplied local needy children with around 250 bikes.

Giving back to the community is important to James. Another one of the many community projects Obsession: Bikes is involved with is the Ride to Conquer Cancer.

"I lost both my parents to cancer in 2004 so I like to do whatever we can for this event," says James.  "Our main contribution is donating mobile tech services using three vehicles to help support the ride and make sure people at the back get their bikes across the line."

James understands that it's no small effort for people with cancer—or people riding in support of a loved one with the disease—to compete in the event, and he's determined no one should feel the disappointment of not being able to cross the finish line.