Pedaling Change

How Special Pedals is empowering neurodiverse adults in Wilmington

By Jen Reed

It’s the building on the corner of Red Cross and North 4th in the Brooklyn Arts District of Downtown Wilmington. It’s unmistakable – the colors of the rainbow lovingly wrapped around three sides of the structure. You could call it “special,” and you would be right. Special Pedals stands as a beacon of inclusivity and innovation. Founded in 2015 by Leah Sherrill, a dedicated special education teacher and UNCW graduate, the nonprofit organization has been transforming lives through its unique approach to employment and education for neurodiverse adults. 

In a world where meaningful employment can be elusive for many, Special Pedals stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to support and uplift its members. 

Its mission is as simple as it is complex: to create an inclusive community where adults with disabilities are employed in roles that offer equitable hours, pay, and quality of life. The organization provides individualized training and employment opportunities in various fields, with a primary focus on bicycle repair, refurbishing, and recycling. Volunteer mentors with diverse backgrounds in special education, marketing, art, and bicycle mechanics work closely with participants, imparting valuable skills to enhance their success in the workforce. 

At the helm of the organization's daily operations is store manager Lingam James, who emphasizes the organization's commitment to fostering a supportive environment where neurodiverse adults can thrive, gain confidence, and develop practical skills. Its impact on the local community is profound, according to James. 

“By offering meaningful employment to individuals who might otherwise face barriers in the job market, we strive to enhance the lives of our team and really enrich the broader community,” he says.

The refurbished bicycles produced by Special Pedals personify sustainable transportation, encourage healthy lifestyles, and provide affordable mobility options for residents. Moreover, the organization's emphasis on recycling and refurbishing contributes to environmental conservation efforts, reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of Special Pedals' philosophy. The organization regularly hosts events, workshops, and block parties to raise awareness about its mission and services. These gatherings foster a sense of unity and inclusivity, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to celebrate diversity and support a common cause. 

Looking ahead, Special Pedals is poised for growth and expansion. The organization aims to broaden its reach by establishing partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and community groups. These collaborations are designed to create more training and employment opportunities for neurodiverse adults, ensuring that they have access to fulfilling careers and the support needed to succeed. Additionally, Special Pedals plans to enhance its educational programs, incorporating advanced bicycle mechanics courses and workshops that cater to a wider range of interests and skill levels.

The organization's leadership is also exploring avenues to increase the availability of refurbished bicycles to underserved populations, thereby promoting equitable access to transportation. By expanding its volunteer base and donor support, Special Pedals aims to scale its operations, refurbishing more bicycles and providing additional services to the community. The organization's commitment to sustainability remains unwavering, with ongoing initiatives to implement greener practices in its operations and supply chain.

Special Pedals' journey from a visionary idea to a transformative community asset exemplifies the power of inclusivity, innovation, and dedication. Through the tireless efforts of its staff, volunteers, and supporters, the organization continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of neurodiverse adults and the Wilmington community at large. As Special Pedals pedals forward into the future, it remains committed to its mission of building a more inclusive, sustainable, and compassionate world, one bicycle at a time.

For those interested in supporting or getting involved with Special Pedals, the organization welcomes donations, volunteers, and community partnerships. Every contribution helps create new opportunities for change, furthering the mission of achieving equity for neurodiverse adults in the workforce. Through their innovative programs and unwavering commitment to inclusivity, they are not only changing lives but also setting a powerful example for others to follow.

Visit specialpedalsinc.org