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Chilliwack Restorative Justice hosts bike auction

More than 100 bikes to be auctioned off to help fund restorative justice programs in Chilliwack
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Peter Devette auctions off one of more than 100 bikes at Bernard elementary during a bike auction and fundraiser for Chilliwack Restorative Justice on Sept. 6

If you're in the market for a used bike, then you won't want to miss this sale.

Bikes that have been recovered by the RCMP are rounded up annually and donated to the Chilliwack Restorative Justice and Youth Advocacy Association. That group then auctions them all off to the highest bidders, providing funding for their programs while getting bikes back out into the community.

They're just gearing up for that sale, this Saturday morning.

And what a lot of bikes they'll be selling off.

Up to 100 bikes will be available, including BMX-style bikes, mountain bikes, speed bikes, and more. From the tiniest children's bikes to very high end frames, there is something for every buyer. While some are in top shape, others will need some tender loving care.

“We have some pretty sweet bike’s coming on the auction block” says Peter Devette, Restorative Justice Board director and sale auctioneer.

If you hope to get a good deal, Devette advises coming down early. Viewing begins at 9 a.m. at Bernard elementary school, and the auction begins at 10 a.m. and runs until all the bikes are sold.

Cash is the only form of payment accepted, and the money collected helps subsidize Restorative Justice, which supports the RCMP, school district and loss prevention services in this community as well as Agassiz, Harrison and Hope.  This program allows first time offenders an opportunity to repair the damage done by an offense.

Executive Director Kathy Funk said that last year's sale brought in over $6,000.

"It was great to see the community come out and support our car wash and bottle drive," she added.  For those not looking for a bike, the organization asks that you support the fundraiser by bringing your refundable beverage containers down and have your car washed.

Supporting the event is a "win/win", Funk said, for both Restorative Justice and for anyone looking for a great deal on a bike.

Restorative Justice is a volunteer based non-profit organization aimed at fostering a safe and caring community.  The mandate of the organization is to bring youth offenders and victims together in order to discuss criminal incidents and to find ways to repair the harm caused.

Since its inception in 1998, they have provided restorative services to over 3,600 individuals and have recovered over $115,000.00 in restitution.

 



Jessica Peters

About the Author: Jessica Peters

I began my career in 1999, covering communities across the Fraser Valley ever since.
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