Thunderbirds Charities has awarded Wheel Fun a $20,000 grant to expand no-cost youth mountain biking opportunities in Pinal County, supporting an established program at Eloy Elementary School and the launch of a new program with the Gila River Indian Community Center.
The investment will help provide bikes, helmets and safety equipment, coaching, maintenance, and dedicated Regional Manager support. Together, the two programs are expected to serve approximately 50 to 55 youth annually while creating lasting access to outdoor recreation in communities where opportunities and equipment can be limited.
At Eloy Elementary, demand has grown enough that the school rotates groups of students throughout the year, allowing approximately 40 youth to participate annually.
“The bike is really just the tool,” said Emilio Perez, Wheel Fun Regional Manager for Pinal County. “It teaches kids how to do hard things, to get back up after a fall, keep trying when something doesn’t come easily, and eventually help the rider next to them do the same. That’s how we build confidence, leadership and resilience.”
Thunderbirds Charities’ investment extends beyond a single season. Bikes and equipment remain in the communities they serve, while ongoing coaching and Regional Manager support help programs grow and serve new groups of students year after year. Investments like this create a foundation for Wheel Fun to continue building sustainable youth cycling opportunities in communities across Arizona where access to outdoor recreation is limited.
This grant is part of the Spring 2026 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.