Programs

Thrive Haïti empowers young cyclists in Haïti through access, education, and opportunity.

Vélo Lakay is the foundation to build training, competition, and youth development initiatives that create long-term opportunities. Our programs are structured across three core pillars.

 

1. Vélo Lakay: Access • Training • Development

Designed to offer essential resources riders need to grow safely, consistently, and confidently.

        The Vélo Lakay initiative operates across three interconnected lanes:

Access to Equipment

Cyclists in Haïti train and compete with limited or worn-out gear. Vélo Lakay addresses that issue and bridges the gap by collecting and distributing quality equipment.

        This access allows riders to:

  • Train safely
  • Maintain their bikes more effectively
  • Participate in rides and events with confidence
  • Reduce the risks that come with inadequate gear

Training & Skill Development

As Vélo Lakay grows, we are building simple, effective training opportunities that help riders improve their skills and deepen their understanding of the sport.

        This includes:

  • Basic skills sessions
  • Safety and maintenance guidance
  • Support from experienced riders in the diaspora
  • Educational content shared through digital platforms

Competition & Long-Term Growth

Competition gives riders purpose, motivation, and measurable progression.

        In the long run, we aim to support riders and clubs in:

  • Local race participation
  • Organized training for competitive events
  • Access to better equipment for race readiness
  • Growth opportunities for exposure in local and international cycling events

Vélo Lakay is more than a gear program - it is the pathway that connects youth to development and future opportunity.

 

2. Youth Development • Community-Based Programming

Our programs are shaped to grow beyond gear and training.
We are establishing foundational initiatives to help the youth build healthier, more resilient lives.

        Future youth programs include:

Youth Cycling Camps

        Seasonal or weekend camps focused on:

  • Skills development
  • Team building
  • Nutrition and wellness
  • Leadership and confidence-building

Clinics & Workshops

        Partner-led or community-led sessions on:

  • Bike handling
  • Road safety
  • Mechanical basics
  • Mentorship and cycling culture

Educational Support & Scholarships

For young cyclists who successfully balance school and sport, we envision small but meaningful supports tied to performance, commitment, responsibility, and community engagement.

Health & Wellness Initiatives

Cycling can be a powerful tool for physical and mental well-being.

        Future programming may include:

  • Community wellness rides
  • Mental health awareness through movement
  • Youth leadership through cycling

The goal is to create a supportive ecosystem around each young rider - not just better cyclists, but healthier, more confident young people.

 

3. Community • Competition • Cultural Connection

Cycling is a tool, but community is the heartbeat of our mission.

Our programs intentionally connect the Haitian diaspora (cyclists and non-cyclists), local riders, and supporters of all backgrounds in ways that strengthen culture, visibility, and long-term opportunity.

Events That Create Awareness

        Ride & Fête, #CenturiesforHaïti, and community rides fuel everything we do. They help:

  • Raise awareness for youth cycling in Haïti
  • Mobilize riders and supporters
  • Engage clubs and partners
  • Build cultural pride and visibility for Haitian cyclists

Club Support & Collaboration

        As we deepen relationships with clubs in Haïti, our aim is to:

  • Understand their real needs, not just surface requests
  • Support club leaders and emerging youth mentors
  • Strengthen community-led cycling culture and infrastructure

Storytelling, Media & Exposure

        We are building more ways to share stories that highlight:

  • Young riders in Haïti 
  • Athletes who ride & their purpose
  • Partners and supporters contributing to the mission
  • The transformational power of cycling

Visibility brings engagement.
Engagement builds community.
Community drives impact.

 

Where Our Programs Are Headed

The evolution of our programs is grounded in a simple idea:
Start where support is needed most, then grow sustainably with the community.

        As Thrive Haïti expands, our programs will continue to evolve toward:

  • Stronger partnerships with clubs and organizations in Haïti & beyond
  • More structured and consistent youth development opportunities
  • Increasing access to quality equipment and targeted, comprehensive training
  • Further development through local and international competitions and race pathways
  • Cultural and community programming that celebrates Haitian identity through cycling

Each step builds momentum toward a sustainable future where every young cyclist in Haïti can ride, grow, and thrive.

 

Join Us

You can help build these programs through:

  • Donations
  • Gear contributions
  • Volunteering or mentoring
  • Hosting or attending events
  • Partnerships and sponsorships
  • Joining our advisory and leadership circle

Explore all the ways to Get Involved.

Together, we’re creating pathways for young cyclists in Haïti to rise, develop, and feel supported by a global community.