Tom Campbell is a dedicated volunteer shop mechanic, contributor… and speed demon! Read more about why he loves volunteering and biking fast, too.
How did you get involved with Community Cycles?
I retired at the end of 2014 after 35 years as an environmental consultant. I began volunteering with Community Cycles in February 2015. I just completed three years as a volunteer!
When I moved to Colorado in 1990, I started taking 20-25 mile rides on my lunch breaks. I’ve always enjoyed cycling, but that’s when I developed a passion. I’ve graduated to riding centuries, and it’s great to have all the mechanical knowledge I’ve gained at Community Cycles.
How did you get started volunteering at Community Cycles?
I began with the complete Mechanic Series, it was a great way to get a foundation for volunteering in the shop. I really enjoy working with my hands, especially after all those years sitting at a desk and writing reports.
Three years is a long time to be a volunteer. What keeps you coming back?
I keep coming back for so many reasons. I love working with my hands, helping people with their bikes and learning something new every day. I appreciate the ongoing tips the mechanics share with me, letting me know what I could have done even better. I really enjoy all the people in the shop — CC staff are easy-going, friendly and fun. And CC members and people using the shop appreciate my help. I sign up for a three-hour shift, but I often work longer because I’m learning. I’m bringing a bicycle to a completion point, and I’m having a great time.
We share your passion and love of bicycling, and we wonder what do you love most about bicycling?
Everything! Bicycles are amazing machines, especially when they’re well-tuned and smooth-running. Bicycling keeps me active and in good shape for an old guy. Preparing for long rides (centuries) motivates me to ride, to train, despite cold weather and other distractions.
And I confess: I love the speed, the taste of freedom
You donated to our building fund, which we appreciate very much. Tell us more about your decision to donate.
Anyone who has worked in the shop or used the shop knows that it’s often busy and crowded in here. We could do even more for the biking community if we had more space. I understand that Community Cycles is about $50,000 shy of the funds it needs in order to receive 100% of the City of Boulder’s matching grant — which is an important milestone to aim for. I hope lots of other people follow my example and donate what they can!
We were honored and humbled to learn that you’ve included us in your will. Why did you decide to recognize Community Cycles that way?
When I see a cause that’s really worthwhile, I like to help out as much as I can. I’m pretty frugal and this allows me to support causes I care about.