Welcome to our Member Spotlight series! This month, we are showcasing Bike/Walk Central Florida (BWCF). This non-profit organization is dedicated to promoting and supporting walkable, bike-friendly, and accessible communities, making it safer and easier for people to get around. For years, BWCF has been a leading advocate for safe and affordable transportation, working on various projects and initiatives that aim to create a healthier, more sustainable, and more equitable transportation system in Central Florida.
With a team of dedicated staff, volunteers, and partners, BWCF has made significant strides in improving the safety and accessibility of Central Florida's streets and trails. Through education, outreach, and advocacy, they have been able to raise awareness about the benefits of active transportation and have inspired many to make biking and walking a part of their daily routine.
In this member spotlight, we will highlight some of the amazing work that BWCF has done. Join us as we celebrate the community-driven efforts of Bike/Walk Central Florida, and learn more about the impact they are making in the region.
Tell us a little about Bike/Walk Central Florida.
Bike/Walk Central Florida (BWCF) is a non-profit organization established in 2010 with the purpose of promoting and supporting the development of walkable, bike-friendly, and accessible communities. We dedicate our efforts to educating and advocating for the establishment of a transportation system that is safe, efficient, and equitable for all individuals.
What led you to start BWCF?
BWCF was founded with the belief that everyone deserves the right to walk and bike in their community without fear for their safety. At the same time the founding board members gathered together, the first Dangerous By Design report by SmartGrowth America was published, and it listed the Orlando Metro Region (from Sanford to Kissimmee) as the most dangerous place to walk in America. That group knew something needed to be done, so they created a civility coalition that eventually became BWCF.
What sets your business apart from your competitors?
We utilize our diverse range of programs and initiatives to bridge the gap between local agency stakeholders and the community to discuss issues and collaborate on improving our neighborhoods. This collaborative effort enables us to develop effective solutions for design, master planning for active transportation, and supporting Safe Routes to School, among other transportation and land use planning efforts. Our established relationships within communities, combined with our practical knowledge of design strategies, allow us to become an invaluable partner for both immediate and future planning efforts.
What is something you wish you’d known when you were just starting your business?
This organization existed prior to our team's leadership. Previously, a communications company ran the organization, and many of the employees worked for both companies. When this leadership team came in, it was not discussed how to operate with two teams in one office. After a few months, the decision was made to split physically and get our own office. Venture X [Orlando] was the first office we sat down with, and they offered super flexible terms, and we were in our new office within the month. That said, I wish I had more time to budget these items, as it was a necessity and we didn’t get an opportunity to think about the future capacity of the organization. (Luckily, Venture X has various office sizes, so we can grow in the same space!).
How do you navigate your work-life balance?
BWCF truly supports the work-life balance by supporting remote work and flexible scheduling. As someone running the organization with a 3-month-old baby and also teaching at UCF, its incredibly helpful to balance life, hobbies, and family around work.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
We get to see, through our efforts, the impact we are making on the community. It's that one person who talked to you about riding his bike in his neighborhood and loving it. It’s the kid who got a new bike and a helmet and is learning how to ride. It’s a ribbon cutting on a new trail, and it’s a notification from our partners saying they’ve made an improvement. Its those little everyday successes that all add up to the impact we make, and that’s what makes it all worthwhile.
How has being a part of the Venture X Orlando community affected you and your business?
Venture X Orlando has allowed us to not only grow within our existing office space, but it has also allowed us to network with our community and businesses within Orlando. Additionally, Venture X has often hosted community events related to transportation projects. They have been a great partner in supporting our efforts.
If you had a friend in town and you could take them to one of your favorite restaurants or spots in your community, where would you take them?
BWCF is a regular visitor to the Robinson. Highly recommend!
To learn more about BWCF and how you can help, visit bikewalkcentralflorida.org!
