From the Executive Director:

Greetings, all! 

I would first like to extend my gratitude to this community and the supporters of The Common Wheel. You are the foundation that sustains us, and I know that the satisfaction this team feels every time we are able to provide a bicycle to folks in need or teach skills through our programming is thanks to that support. Thank you for being a spoke in The Common Wheel.

As we approach the end of another year, I can’t help but reflect on all of the progress that has been made in 2024, and it provides me with a hopeful attitude for our future. 

In December 2023, when I walked into what was formerly the Lazy K Lounge there on Locust Street to officially kick off our renovation, I felt the gravity of the task for the first time—there was A LOT of work to do. It was with our monumental fundraising, increased volunteer numbers, and an amazing team willing to roll up their sleeves and TCOB (take care of business) that we were able to hold a grand opening back in May. The success in opening our Columbia shop is just one example of the strides we made in 2024. 

In January I was headed into my second year as Director of Operations for The Common Wheel, and my fourth year as a staff member. By mid-summer, I took on the Interim Executive Director role, managing a major transition for The Common Wheel. Now, at the close of 2024, I am happy to take on my new role as Executive Director.

It was a big year for me, and for The Common Wheel. I am grateful to all of you, our board of directors, and most importantly the staff that show up and assist the members of this community who come to us as program applicants, as students, and as people in need of empowerment. The bicycle is just such a wonderful way to provide it to them. 

Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a healthy new year,

MacKenzie Hand

Executive Director, The Common Wheel