Altruistic Answers from Bridget Salice: Charities in the Spotlight

Our newest column “Altruistic Answers: Charities in the Spotlight” features Q&As with Rye, Rye Brook and Port Chester residents who have founded, participate in or help with the many non-profit and charities in our communities. Here is our first feature on Linking Handlebars. 

Organization: Linking Handlebars

Mission: To help underprivileged children enjoy the outdoors and a health means of transportation. 

Founding Members: The founding members of the organization are four Rye High School girls, Lucia Villani, Cristiana Villani, Bridget Salice and Jenna Cammisa. They have a wide range of volunteer experience in the local community having volunteered at Part of the Solution in the Bronx, the Carver Center and at Helping Hands. The group’s mission is to promote a healthier lifestyle for needy children through the distribution of bicycles,” according to the group’s flyer. 

To donate or get involved: visit linkinghandlebars.org. Their next donation drive will be at the end of this summer. Check with Patch for information.

They distributed 32 bicycles last December and 5 bicycles this June to children at the Carver Center. They collect gently used bicycles and have them checked out and fixed up. They also accept monetary donations to pay for the repairs for the gently used bicycles and to purchase new helmets and new bicycles.

 This is the third of four Q&As with the founding members. 

Answers from Bridget Salice, 16

Why did you decide to start or get involved?

Cristiana asked me if I was interested in the creation of an organization with her, Lucia, and Jenna. I thought the idea of giving bikes to young children in our community sounded really cute and smart; I had to join!

What is the kids reaction when you give them the bike?
 How does that make you feel?



The kids are usually very excited, almost giddy. Seeing them so overjoyed gives me a sense of accomplishment and pride knowing that the simple idea of a bike can make them feel so great.

Do you expect to continue community service work in the future?

Yes, community service is very important in my life.

What is the most challenging part about running a charity? 
What is the most rewarding part?



The most challenging part would be getting enough bikes so that we can fulfill our goal in the list of kids who we want to help.

The most rewarding part would be our bike giveaways and receiving money for new bikes and gently used bikes so we can distribute them to the children.

Can you give me an anecdote on how you first learned ride a bike?

My mom and I biked around my neighborhood until I was confident I was able to bike like a pro!