Cool Water Bikes is a full-service, non-profit bicycle shop owned and operated by Cup of Cool Water, a Christian ministry working with Spokane’s street youth since 1995. Homeless youth can work to earn a refurbished donated bicycle, which are also for sale to the public. All proceeds from sales and service help support Cup of Cool Water’s programs. CWB uses bikes as a catalyst to build relationships with homeless youth, empowering them to become wholehearted followers of Christ and to exit street life. Riding, repairing, and selling bikes side by side, mentors and homeless youth have the opportunity to experience the love and hope of Jesus Christ. Youth can learn practical life skills and qualities like confidence, dedication, and respect and hear about the God who truly embodies those qualities and who promises to rescue them through His Son. The shop is a safe working environment where they can ask questions, have one-on-one conversations, and practice healthy relationships.
History
Cool Water Bikes grew out of shared interest between youth and staff at Cup of Cool Water. We started with recreational bike rides around Spokane in 2002, including riding on the Hiawatha Trail. Eventually, we added mountain bike races and triathlons, giving the youth opportunities to compete alongside volunteers. After one triathlon, a youth said, “Now I want to get a job so I can buy my own bike.” In 2007, we began a series of informal repair classes, which sparked the idea of starting a full-service bike shop. Cool Water Bikes was established in July 2008. We would love to see the shop grow some day to include custom paint jobs, bicycle rental, frame building, and more programs for the general public, including repair classes, build-a-bike, and tool rental.
