Los Angeles Bicycle Academy

Exploring LA, One Dead-End at a Time

Cycling is more than a mode of transportation—it’s a vehicle for change, liberation, and connection. That’s why I’m embarking on an ambitious bicycle journey across Los Angeles, riding as many streets as possible and (if this GoFundMe is completed) tackling all 8,449 dead-end roads across the city. Every Dead End Project (@everydeadendproject) is more than just an exploration of LA’s hidden corners; it’s a fundraiser for the Los Angeles Bicycle Academy (LABA), a remarkable organization dedicated to empowering underserved youth through the transformative power of cycling.

LABA understands the barriers that stand between underprivileged youth and the open road. That’s why they offer more than just bike sales and repairs. LABA provides scholarships for equipment and coaching, pairs young riders with experienced mentors, and organizes local events that nurture passion and build confidence. Every penny earned through their bike shop fuels their core mission: empowering young cyclists to reach their full potential, both on and off the saddle. Their work is about more than bicycles—it’s about creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and building brighter futures for young people across Los Angeles.

My goal is to raise $8,449—one dollar for every dead-end road in Los Angeles, calculated with much help from Wandrer—to support LABA’s efforts to fix bikes and futures. For every dollar donated, I will ride to and photograph one dead-end street. Donors contributing $25 or more can even pick a specific road for me to explore. Along the way, I’ll share updates, celebrate milestones with group rides, and showcase what’s possible on two wheels, even in a car-centric city like Los Angeles.

This journey isn’t just about raising funds—I’m trying to inspire others to look at the world differently. Through this project, I hope more people are encouraged to embrace cycling, connect with their communities, and discover the joy of slowing down and exploring the streets less traveled.

Join me in supporting LABA and transforming lives, one pedal stroke at a time. Together, we can show that a bicycle is more than just two wheels for getting around—it’s a tool for building a brighter future.

Los Angeles Bicycle Academy (L.A.B.A) is a youth bicycle education and safety program, community bike shop and cycling race team with a mission to empower, educate and develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills in youth. Our focus is to work with youth from underserved communities where opportunity, access, equity, and exposure within the sport of cycling is extremely limited. Through our Earn-A-Bike, Race Team, LABA Road Club, Workforce Development and Career Exploration programs, young people have the opportunity to thrive and learn life lessons, all through the power of a bicycle!

The success of our organization is contingent upon generous supporters who have a passion for bettering the lives of underserved youth through the sport of cycling.

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Regrettably, we recently experienced a significant setback in our mission to empower and transform lives through cycling. A major sponsor, who had initially committed to a three-year partnership, has had to withdraw their support unexpectedly. This sudden loss of funding has left us in a precarious position, jeopardizing the programs and opportunities we provide to our youth and community.

The impact of this unexpected turn of events cannot be overstated. Los Angeles Bicycle Academy has been an agent of hope and positive change for countless youth, offering not just the joy of cycling but also valuable life skills, mentorship, racing opportunities, skill development, and a sense of community. Now, we find ourselves at a crossroads, facing the imminent threat of reduced services and, ultimately, the potential closure of vital programs that are touching so many lives.

This is where your support becomes paramount! We are reaching out to our community, friends, and champions of our cause, asking for your help to bridge the financial gap. Your generous contribution will not only keep the wheels turning at Los Angeles Bicycle Academy but will also ensure that the positive impact on the youth we serve continues unabated.

In these challenging times, your support is a lifeline for us. Together, we can overcome this obstacle and continue making a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.

Thank you for standing with us in this critical moment. Your commitment to Los Angeles Bicycle Academy is a testament to the strength of our community and the belief that positive change is possible through the power of two wheels.