Here we come 2023. Let's ride!
In 2016, I began witnessing something special in my two daughters. I was drawn to their emerging confidence and expanding connection to our community. They'd been riding in Norte's Summer Bike Camp, and the impact was unmistakable. It was then I knew I wanted to support these experiences for others.
As we close out 2022, I pause to reflect on our organization's history, impact, and future. I'm proud of our steady efforts and motivated to ensure these experiences reach more children across northern Michigan.
In 2012, Norte's Community Engagement Manager, Lauren Dake, and her husband, James, rode their bicycles 3,000 miles from Michigan to California. Although the distance alone is impressive, several aspects of their journey stand out. First, they carefully planned their travels by pouring over maps, checking and rechecking their gear, and seeking advice and insight from others. Then they set out on their grand adventure.
Lauren and James navigated obstacles, weather, and the unplanned during their travels. They adjusted their route as they learned. Their adventure exceeded their expectations. We have a similar opportunity ahead.
“Norte is blazing a new and exciting trail. ”
Norte is blazing a new and exciting trail. In February, we will create a three-year strategic plan. Our mission and our community of supporters will guide the next leg of our path. We will balance our capacity with our resources. We will collaborate with community partners. We will form friendships, encourage riders, and pause to appreciate the natural landscape and our communities. We will follow the plan, and when necessary, we will adjust our route, just as Lauren and James did riding across the country.
Most journeys are the ones we take together through our daily actions, routines, and experiences in our hometowns—right here. At Norte, we are fortunate to have coaches who empower local youth, volunteers who generously share their time, and riders who give it their all. We also have a volunteer board that guides with profound commitment and a staff who cares deeply. And we have generous supporters who sustain our ever-increasing impact in northern Michigan with continued investment.
Together, we make a fantastic team, and we wouldn't have it any other way. We are like spokes on a bicycle wheel, stronger together.
So as each of us begins 2023 with renewed optimism and energy, here's to creating happy, healthy, strong communities together.
Join us for the ride!
Jill Sill, Executive Director
P.S. If you're inspired to get involved and support our efforts, there are many ways to do so! You can become a coach, volunteer, program participant, or monthly donor. If you have some ideas for Norte, I'd love to hear them!
