Fifth Graders at Citrus Elementary Build Bikes for Local Kids

Fifth graders at Citrus Elementary in Chico, California, are using their skills to give back this holiday season by building bicycles for local children in need. On December 16, 2025, students in Nathaniel Wion’s class worked diligently to finish assembling eight bicycles that they had been constructing for over a month. “It’s hard but it’s fun,” shared 11-year-old Elena Martin, capturing the spirit of collaboration and learning.

Hands-On Learning and Community Support

This annual project allows students to learn valuable lessons in problem-solving, teamwork, and philanthropy. The bicycles are assembled from used parts primarily sourced through the nonprofit Sensible Cyclery. Wion emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting, “The community helps.” Local bike shops also contribute additional parts as needed, fostering a sense of community involvement.

Students work together in small groups, with each child actively participating in the bike assembly process. Wion highlighted their independence, stating, “I have heard this many people ask for help,” while demonstrating that the classroom atmosphere encourages collaboration.

Some students found the project challenging, describing their experiences as “hard,” “frustrating,” and even “painful.” Yet, through their struggles, they learned the significance of perseverance. Randy “RJ” Harrell noted that working together helped them complete tasks more efficiently, echoing the sentiment of his classmates.

Impact on Local Youth

The completed bicycles are donated to the Boys and Girls Club of the North Valley, which distributes them to children who apply for them. Jessica Starkey, area director for elementary services at the club, explained that they invite members to submit letters detailing why they want a bike. The nonprofit verifies each request with parents to ensure that recipients genuinely need a bicycle.

In addition to the bikes, the students from Citrus Elementary write letters to the recipients, adding a personal touch to the donations. Starkey noted the emotional significance of this initiative, stating, “I think that social-emotional impact plays a really big role in it all.” Many of the children who build the bikes also attend the Boys and Girls Club, creating a full-circle experience when they see their contributions being given to peers.

This bike-building project, which has been running for over 15 years in Butte County, was initially started by Ray Bransky when he taught at Emma Wilson. Wion has taken the lead on the project for the past eight years, continuing the legacy of community service through hands-on learning for his students.

As the holiday season approaches, the efforts of these fifth graders at Citrus Elementary not only provide bicycles for local children but also instill in them the values of generosity and teamwork. It’s a project that not only impacts those receiving the bikes but also profoundly shapes the young builders, equipping them with essential life skills.