PHOENIX — Getting to work or the grocery store is something many people take for granted, but for some, getting across town can be difficult without a car or another mode of transportation. That's why St. Vincent de Paul offers bikes to those who need them most.
Ricky Laswell received a bike from the program and now he volunteers in the organization's bike shop.
"I'm always eager to learn something new. When I was a kid I used to strip my bike down about every three months and paint it, re-grease everything and then put it back together."
Ricky spends his days making sure donated bikes are road ready.
"It's like coming out of a store once we're done with them."
He works alongside Francisco Villegas, the Bike Shop Manager.
"We collect about 1,000 to 1,300 (bikes)," during the Second Chance Bike Drive, Francisco says.
Every year ABC15 teams up with Earnhardt Auto Dealers and St. Vincent de Paul to fill the shop up with bikes.
Ricky says sometimes it takes him a bit longer to work on the bikes but he knows it's going to get done right.
"I get to work with my hands, and I like doing that. I know I got arthritis and it hurts when I do but I keep going through it because I know it's going to help somebody out."
Ricky spends his time giving back to an organization that has helped him and his brother.
"It gave us a roof over our head, it helped me and my brother to get back on our feet."
Ricky is currently living in a St. Vincent De Paul shelter, the organization giving him the tools to find permanent housing and financial stability.
"I appreciate what they do for us, they treat us like family."
You can donate by clicking here.
