A Gainesville bicycling organization is introducing its new headquarters and bike repair shop with several events today.
The group, called The Kickstand, will host a bike ride starting at 5:30 p.m. on the Plaza of the Americas on the UF campus and ending at the shop at 722 South Main St.
The finish line will feature a reception with free veggie chili and live performances by bands such as Umoja Orchestra, Team Mascot, The Impossible Shoelace and Dirty Fist, said Ani Previc, director of The Kickstand.
Previc said the organization provides Gainesville bicyclists with free bike repairs, community service opportunities and biking information.
"The spirit behind the project is that riding bicycles provides anyone from any background a chance to feel like part of community," she said. "This is a community that is health conscious, sustainable and non-partisan."
The Kickstand is accepting donations of old bicycles and parts, Previc said.
However, she said her favorite donations are volunteers.
"Coming here shows people that they belong somewhere," Previc said with a smile. "It's empowering."
