Just a bit of news to pass along, kolo fam.

 On February 8, I’ll be joining the really cool folks at Norte. To say I’m excited would be an understatement, as working for the Orange Army has been something I’ve always thought would be the coolest darn gig possible. When I read the job description for the Donor Relations Specialist job, I didn’t think I could have written a job description that fits me better had I written the copy on that page myself. 

If you haven’t heard of Norte, you’ve likely seen the kids wearing orange riding all over northern Michigan at some point over the last five years. But to say the organization is just about bikes would be only half the point. 

Norte exists to help kids learn the habits and benefits of living an active, engaged, and service-based lives. From after school bike-safety programs, to pro-walking and biking advocacy efforts, bike maintenance learning opportunities, to Winter Walk Wednesdays, Norte’s work is focused on empowering youth to take charge of their health and responsibility for their community. 

Sure, we ride bikes. But our work is so much more than that. It’s about helping the next generation be a healthier, happier, and engaged citizenry. And gosh darn it, that is a pretty good mission to work towards. 

I’m really excited to work with and learn from the truly inspirational Norte staff, Board, and selfless volunteers who have made Norte such an important part of communities in our area. I just hope I can pull off the orange hats as well as everyone else seems to!

If you want to chat about Norte’s mission, send me an email and I can talk ad nauseam about all the cool programs available to kids of all ages across northern Michigan. 

Tailwinds,
Wes