Volunteers are the heart of the MDI Wheeler organization. We rely on volunteers for many tasks: to serve as pilots and safeties for our riders, to help maintain our equipment, to coordinate volunteers, to schedule rides and to build our community.
Pilots and Safeties
Pilots pedal the trikes. All pilots receive special training to make sure our rides are safe. Although our trikes are equipped with E-1 electric pedal-assist motors, riding with a Wheeler takes some strength.
Safety riders ride alongside our Wheeler trikes on their own bikes (regular or e-bikes). They assist with the safe movement of the group on the Carriage Roads.
MDI Wheeler rides are group rides with at least three volunteers. We refer to the group of trikes and safety riders as a pod. They always stay together. Ride sessions last a half hour to an hour. All ride routes are designed to take advantage of moderate terrain and allow riders to enjoy lovely views.
Riders are the people we serve–the ones we love to see smile!
“The bike ride was terrific! I saw parts of the Park that I had never seen before. The ride was very comfortable and educational. Thank you MDI Wheelers!”
– Bill Buchanan
To become a pilot or safety, a volunteer must:
- Be at least twenty-one years of age;
- Weigh no more than 225 pounds;
- Complete a four-hour training session;
- Satisfactorily perform all pilot-related skills; and
- Commit to a minimum of two half-day shifts per month, June through September.
Training takes place in the late spring before the ride season, primarily during May and throughout the season if required. Training sessions focus on learning how to deliver a safe, comfortable, and fun experience for our riders. Sessions are four hours long. Volunteers learn the fundamentals of operating the trikes, our safety guidelines, and best practices for interacting with our Riders.
Being an MDI Wheeler Pilot or Safety is a significant commitment with great rewards. Our Riders look forward to seeing you. You will absolutely make their day, and we’re certain they’ll make yours!
If you are interested in volunteering as a Pilot or Safety, contact us, and we will get back to you about the next training opportunity.