Meet Olivia Hattersley, member since 2010, rockstar volunteer and Bike to Work Day Captain! As we gear up for the 20th Anniversary of Bike to Work Day in the Bay Area, we caught up with Olivia to hear about what motivates her to volunteer, to reflect on some great Bike to Work Day moments and to get the scoop on her coffee-fueled century-training.
How did you get involved with Bike to Work Day? What motivated you to start volunteering?
I was a member for several years before I made the time to volunteer. When I finally sent an email inquiring about Ambassador training, I got a super-welcoming response back from (Volunteer Manager) Margaret right away. I honestly didn’t even realize Bike to Work Day was coming up when I showed up for that first training, but I went with it. I ended up going all out and volunteering to Captain two Energizer Stations my first day on the job! It was intense, but so rewarding. Now I’m hooked.
What was your favorite Bike to Work Day volunteer moment?
Last year a rider stopped by our morning station on Valencia and shared his story with me. He said when he first moved to San Francisco years ago, he wanted to get out on a bicycle but kept putting it off because he felt nervous. Hearing about Bike to Work Day got him excited to get out on his bike for the first time. Since that day, which was years ago, he has been riding his bike every day! His face and spirit lit up with happiness and gratitude as he talked about it. That’s transformative right there, and that’s something I want to be a part of.
Since last year was your fist time, what made you decide to volunteer with Bike to Work Day again this year?
Definitely the people. It truly inspires me to meet so many people with different jobs and backgrounds and styles who really get why biking is so awesome.
What do you do when you’re not donating your time to the SF Bicycle Coalition?
Mostly working as a community manager for Beats Music, going to shows and training for centuries (i.e. drinking lots of coffee).
What advice would you give to someone thinking about volunteering with us on Bike to Work Day?
Do it! I’ve seen nothing but smiles and good times from the volunteers I’ve worked with. It’s a great way to connect with the biking community, meet fun people, and contribute to making San Francisco’s streets safer for everyone.
Swing by one of our 26 Energizer Stations on Thursday, May 8, to talk with great volunteers like Olivia, who can help you join or renew your SF Bicycle Coalition membership, tell you more about our work and hook you up with a free commemorative 20th Anniversary tote bag! Want to get involved? Check out our upcoming volunteer opportunities and sign up on our website.