Ken Perko, program coordinator for the YouthCity Program at the Central City Recreation Center, has been working with the bike shop for the past four years and said participating in the Earn-a-Bike Program has been positive for youths.

"It's a great space for the kids to be in," he said. "It's more just the exposure kids get to an organization that brings in such diverse populations. More kids are exposed to community organizations and things that build a community."

The hands-on learning opportunity for the youths is useful, because it's something they don't often get to do while sitting at a desk all day.

"To see a kid with greasy hands, to me, is a sign of success, because I know they're working hard and doing something they wouldn't be doing somewhere else," Perko said.

The Community Bike Shop is located at 2312 S. West Temple in Salt Lake City. Anyone wanting to find out more information about the shop or the courses it offers is welcome to call 328-2453 or visit the Web site for the Salt Lake City Bicycle Collective at www.slcbikecollective.org. Morrison said the shop is a good resource for anyone.

"It's a friendly atmosphere and really anyone can come in (to the shop) no matter who you are,"

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E-mail: twalquist@desnews.com