It’s true—you never forget how to ride a bike. However, it’s also true that many people never had the chance to learn.

This is unfortunate. Cycling is good for people, communities, economies, and the environment. It’s proven to have positive effects on mental, emotional, and physical health, and empowers people to explore new environments and overcome economic and societal barriers. And when someone learns how to ride a bike, they gain the confidence to improve their lives in ways they had previously thought impossible. (Think of it as a “gateway skill.”)

For all these reasons and more, here at Bike New York, we’re proud to say that we’ve created America’s largest urban bike education program. Last year alone, we taught bike skills to more than 16,000 kids and adults. As Irasema Rivera, the instructor in the video, puts it: Bike New York is powerful.

But we can’t do it without the support of our donors and volunteers. As we approach the holiday season and take stock of the good fortune many of us have had and the opportunities we’ve been given, we ask that you watch the video above—filmed entirely at one of our Learn to Ride classes earlier this summer—and consider making a tax-deductible donation to Bike New York between now and #GivingTuesday (Dec. 1). When you give to Bike New York, you’re empowering the next generation of cyclists to grab life by the handlebars.

Please watch and share the video, and consider making a donation this holiday season.