Volunteer at this year’s Bike the Drive

Riding a car-free Lake Shore Drive is an unforgettable experience for the many who participate in our annual MB Financial Bank Bike the Drive, but it’s not the only way to get involved and support our movement. 

Visit our event website to sign up as a volunteer today.

Bike the Drive volunteers get to make their own unique memories during a summer morning along the lake. Over 600 people make up the incredible MB Financial Bank Bike the Drive volunteer force, assisting the more than 20,000 people on bikes who take over Lake Shore Drive. 

Our volunteers come from all over Chicagoland. We have seniors, youth, families and clubs who share in this once-a-year experience. Some of our volunteers have been helping riders for years as ride marshals who help stranded riders get back on the road. Others get to help in volunteer accommodations, bringing water and snacks to our course marshals who cheer on riders and check the course. 

After helping out with several events over the years, in 2015 I’m serving as Active Trans’ volunteer coordinator. Every year brings new experiences and stories to tell. 

On a foggy, rainy morning I watched the skyline emerge from my course marshal position. As the sky brightened, I spent the morning exchanging cheery greetings and thank you’s with hundreds of other bike lovers. Other years I’ve chatted with riders in spandex bike shorts and rest stop volunteers over tasty bananas and Clif Bars. My favorite thing about being a course marshal manager was working with our rock star youth groups who cheered and waved flags with an amazing amount of early morning energy.  

Now is your chance to make your own memories. By giving your time and efforts, you contribute to our biggest fundraiser which makes our work throughout the year possible. Join bike aficionados, advocates, pancake-lovers and everyone in between for Chicago’s best bike event of the year. Rain or shine, you’re bound to have a good time! 

If you’re ready to join us, please visit www.bikethedrive.org/volunteer. Day-of-event volunteers receive an event t-shirt, pancake breakfast and a raffle entry. Groups of 15 or more may qualify for a $200 donation as well. Contact me by email or phone (312-216-0489) if you have any questions.