The Ecology Action Centre's Bike Buddy Program is a bike mentorship that pairs a newcomer ‘mentee’ with a local bicycle rider ‘mentor’. The goal of the Bike Buddy program is to help newcomers feel more confident riding their bicycle, explore the city and meet new people!
Participation - Mentor & Mentee
Participation - Mentor & Mentee
Are you a newcomer over the age of 18, eager to explore your new city on a bike? Or are you a local bike enthusiast excited to share your knowledge and passion with newcomers? Join our 2025 Bike Buddy program for a fulfilling experience!
For Bike Buddy mentees (newcomers)
Are you a newcomer (immigrant, refugee, refugee claimant, migrant) with a knack for riding bicycles? Join us for an exciting 2-month journey filled with bike rides, group activities, and workshops. Here's what you need to know:
Requirements:
- Over 18 years old
- Able to ride a bicycle
- Commitment to two months of bike rides, including a mentor-led ride, group bike rides and workshops
- Each meet-up lasts 1-2 hours, with a total commitment of approximately 20 hours
- Participants may receive a secondhand bicycle, helmet, lights, lock and a bell if needed
Program cohorts:
- May-June
- July-August
- September-October
- Each cohort has a maximum capacity of 10 pairs.
Registration for 2025:
- Please fill out the Bike Buddy Mentee and Risk Liability forms
For Bike Buddy mentors (locals)
Are you an experienced local cyclist eager to guide newcomers through the city and share your biking expertise? Here's your chance to make a difference:
Requirements:
- Experienced local bike rider with a functioning bike
- Interest in showcasing the city, offering bike tips and sharing local points of interest
- Commitment to two months of bike rides, approximately 1-2 hours each
- Total commitment of approximately 20 hours, including three hours of Bike Buddy mentor training
Application for 2025:
- If you are a new volunteer, please fill out the Bike Buddy Mentor and Risk Liability forms
- If you are a returning mentor, please fill out the Returning Mentors and Risk Liability forms
Safety measures:
- View and download the Bike Buddy health & safety incident report form.
Email bikebuddy@ecologyaction.ca to inquire and learn about other programs
Join us in creating a welcoming community and exploring the city on two wheels!
National Study on Bicycle Mentorship Programs
National Study on Bicycle Mentorship Programs
The first iteration of the Halifax Bike Buddy program, spanning from 2021 to 2023, formed part of a nationwide investigation into the effectiveness of newcomer bicycle mentorship initiatives. This study, led by academic researchers at Simon Fraser University, included similar programs in Vancouver and Toronto.
For further details, refer to the Newcomer Bike Mentorship Program How-to Guide. Inside, you'll find the Program Delivery Manual, Program Delivery Resources, and the Program Evaluation.