Showing heart for the community

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

Jake Gelderblom, owner of Joker Bicycle Co. in Carseland, has been named the Q1 recipient of the Hearts of Our Community Business Award, an honour celebrating local entrepreneurs who go above and beyond to serve their communities.

Gelderblom was clearly moved by the award, which is presented by Community Futures Wild Rose. 

“I was very surprised … I was nominated since December, then I was called out of the blue.” he said with a laugh when he received the phone call informing him of his accomplishment.

Founded just three years ago, Joker Bicycle Co. has quickly become a staple in the local community, offering more than just bikes and repairs. The shop has become known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and helping those in need.

Gelderblom credited the collective efforts of many people, including Denise Geremia who previously owned Lil Hoots Family Consignment, who were inspirational in the initiative of the free bikes for the community.

“We’re partially about helping the community,” Gelderblom explained, “and also keeping bikes out of landfill – just repurposing rather than buying new all the time.

“I think I’m old school. I like the older ways of doing things, like people standing together and helping each other. A lot of people don’t do that anymore.”

His actions reflect that philosophy. He’s known for quietly donating bikes to those in need. 

“If someone comes to me, like a kid who doesn’t have a bicycle, I’ll gladly give him a bike,” he said. “There’s a freedom that comes with bicycles, that needs to be enjoyed. I think something like this brings people together again, and also families sticking together.”

Despite the demands of running a business, Gelderblom said he finds the community work rewarding especially when it brings smiles to children’s faces. 

“Sometimes it’s a push for time … but seeing a 12-year-old smile makes it rewarding in itself.”

Gelderblom has also volunteered his time to the Kiwanis Bicycle Rodeo teaching bike safety and on-site repairs. Gelderbom donates 80 per cent of his earnings reinvesting back into his passion for bike donations. 

Looking ahead, Gelderblom hopes to launch programs that teach youth about bicycle repair and maintenance and more generally how to ride bikes. 

“I’d like to teach a thing … maybe get a space to run it,” he said, though he noted the challenges of finding both time and equipment to get the idea off the ground.

The award, Gelderblom emphasized, isn’t just about him. 

“It’s not just me – this award reflects a group effort,” he said. “There’s always someone helping out. The community is really behind us.”