December 15, 2025
UAW Local 862 Participates
In Bikes Or Bust Program
Bikes or Bust in Louisville began in 2015 as a holiday bike drive organized by Q103.1 radio and has since grown into an annual tradition, collecting thousands of new bicycles for children in need across Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

In 2015, Q103.1 radio personalities launched the event in partnership with the Marine Toys for Tots program, aiming to provide bikes to kids who might otherwise go without during Christmas. The first year over 1,000 bikes were collected in the inaugural year, setting the tone for future drives. Each year, volunteers, unions, local businesses, and community members gather to donate and load bikes for distribution.

"As a proud member of UAW Local 862, I look back on Bikes or Bust with immense pride. On November 22, our union hall—Gettelfinger Hall—was the center of a powerful community effort,” states Local 862 member Kim Ashby. “ A caravan of donors rolled in with hundreds of bicycles, each one destined to bring joy to children in need this Christmas.”

The event was more than just a drop-off; it was a celebration of solidarity and compassion. I watched as my fellow union members worked tirelessly—directing traffic, unloading bikes, greeting partners, and making sure everything ran smoothly. Our UAW leaders provided the vision and guidance, and our members brought the muscle and heart. Together, we showed once again that UAW 862 is more than a union—it’s a family committed to serving the community."

UAW Local 862 are joined by incredible partners who stand shoulder to shoulder with them including: IBEW Local 369 Louisville, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Texas Roadhouse, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, LMPD, Q 103.1, and Marine Toys For Tots – Louisville. Their support, along with Metro United Way’s leadership, made this event a resounding success.

“Now that the bikes have been delivered, I can’t help but think about the smiles they will bring on Christmas morning. Each bicycle represents freedom, fun, and hope for a child who might otherwise have gone without. That’s the true spirit of union solidarity—lifting others up and making sure no one is left behind. From this union member’s perspective, thank you to our UAW 862 leaders and every member who gave their time and energy. You proved that when we come together, we can make a lasting difference in our community,” Kim Ashby adds.