I am writing to formally introduce Bikes Up Guns Down Michigan, a Michigan-based community initiative dedicated to youth violence prevention, positive mentorship, and constructive engagement for at-risk adolescents and young adults.

Founded in response to increasing community safety concerns and limited access to structured, prevention-focused programming, Bikes Up Guns Down Michigan utilizes supervised motorsports-based activities as an evidence-informed engagement strategy. Our program redirects high-risk youth toward responsible participation, technical skill development, safety education, and positive adult mentorship within a structured and accountable framework.

The program serves youth and young adults ages 12–25, with an initial geographic focus on Van Buren County and surrounding communities. Core program components include supervised ride events, safety training and certification, mechanical and vocational skill instruction, and mentorship emphasizing accountability, conflict avoidance, and long-term goal development.

Bikes Up Guns Down Michigan is seeking partnership and/or financial support to advance program implementation, including costs related to safety equipment, insurance and compliance, transportation, instructional materials, and program administration. Our objective is to ensure programming remains accessible, structured, and aligned with best practices in youth engagement and community violence prevention.

Attached for your review is our organizational and program packet, which includes a project summary, mission and vision statements, budget narrative, and founder overview. We respectfully request consideration for funding and/or partnership and welcome the opportunity to discuss alignment with your organization’s priorities.

Thank you for your time and consideration. We appreciate your commitment to proactive, community-based solutions and look forward to the possibility of collaboration.

Sincerely,

Jace Severinghaus

Founder and Program Director

Bikes Up Guns Down Michigan