Gearing Up, a new program of WIT, creates a safe, supportive environment for people whose lives have been impacted by multiple challenges. Through group bike rides, participants enhance confidence and life skills, strengthen physical fitness, and build emotional health.
Gearing Up is a bike riding program offered to people enrolled in addiction treatment programs in the Philadelphia area.
The Gearing Up program is designed to enhance the physical, emotional, and social health of people in treatment for addiction, through biking. The ultimate goal is for participants to transition to the next phase of their recovery as healthy individuals and bicycle riders who use bikes for exercise, recreation, and transportation.
Why Bike Rides?
Physical Fitness. Biking is a tool to increase physical activity and lower stress. We help participants adopt healthier lifestyles to combat histories of abuse, addiction, and incarceration.
Making Connections. Our programs offer a safe space where people can seek advice and encouragement, build friendships, and make connections that lead to positive life changes.
Practical Skills. Biking can provide an important means of transportation as people look to reenter the workforce and move toward their long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the relationship between Gearing Up and Women In Transition?
In 2017, the Gearing Up board and staff reached the conclusion that Gearing Up would be more sustainable as a program within a like-minded organization than as an independent non-profit. Seeking an organization that shared Gearing Up’s core values of empowerment, compassion, and health and wellness, Gearing Up approached Women In Transition about the possibility of a merger. The merger was finalized and approved in early 2020. As a merged organization, Gearing Up has become a program of Women In Transition. Read the full announcement here.
When is Gearing Up programming beginning?
Plans to launch Gearing Up programming were suspended due to the pandemic. While the program is currently in hiatus, we hope to announce new plans to launch Gearing Up group bike rides soon.
How can I get involved?
The best way to get involved is to sign up for Women In Transition’s email list by clicking here. You can also follow Gearing Up on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. If you have more questions about Gearing Up, contact us at gearingup@helpwomen.org.
Can I donate to Gearing Up?
Yes! You can support Gearing Up programming by donating at this link. We are not currently accepting in-kind donations of bicycles or equipment.
