In our ongoing series highlighting the impactful work of NGOs, we are thrilled to spotlight Pedalar Sem Idade (Cycling Without Age). This inspiring movement brings joy and dignity to seniors and individuals with mobility challenges through bike rides, engaging conversations, and shared experiences.
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Pedalar Sem Idade is more than just about bicycles; it’s about building relationships, fostering generosity, and providing seniors — who often lack access to life’s simple pleasures — the opportunity to enjoy what many of us take for granted. The movement emphasizes taking things slow, finding purpose, and listening to the inspiring stories of the seniors who participate in the rides.
Founded by Ole, who was deeply affected by the lack of freedom, joy, and mobility experienced by the elderly, Pedalar Sem Idade started with a simple question: “How can we get these individuals back on a bike?” His answer was the introduction of a trishaw, and from that moment on, everything changed — for the passengers, the volunteers, and for Ole himself.
The Team Behind Pedalar Sem Idade Portugal
The team leading Pedalar Sem Idade in Portugal is as remarkable as the project itself. Directed by Margarida, a former kindergarten educator who took on the leadership role in 2020, the team comprises individuals with diverse skills and a shared passion for making a difference.
Amos, the volunteer coordinator, was a sailor in Indonesia before he decided to bring joy to trishaw riders in Portugal. Leonor, the Operations Coordinator, is a pharmacist who discovered her true calling with the organization while seeking meaningful work. Rui, the president, introduced Pedalar Sem Idade to Portugal after being inspired by its mission.
Together, this dedicated team has had a tremendous impact on both the volunteers and the seniors they serve.
The Trishaw Experience: A Journey Like No Other
The experience offered by Pedalar Sem Idade goes beyond mere transportation; it focuses on fostering meaningful connections. Volunteers, referred to as “pilots,” ride the trishaws and spend 45 to 60 minutes accompanying seniors, individuals with reduced mobility, and those in palliative care during their journeys. These trips are not just about moving from point A to point B — they are opportunities to enjoy the ride, engage in conversations, and create lasting memories.
The trishaws are designed with comfort in mind, accommodating two seniors and one volunteer. They are equipped with a roof, heated blankets, and are durable enough to withstand temperatures as low as -25°C. This ensures that everyone can participate, regardless of the season.
Volunteer Opportunities
The heart of Pedalar Sem Idade lies in the amazing volunteers who make these rides possible. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or someone who simply wants to spread joy to others, there are many ways to get involved. Volunteers are needed to guide the trishaws, ensuring that each journey is safe, enjoyable, and positive.
Additionally, volunteers play a crucial role in data collection, ensuring that every ride is documented accurately for both operational and reporting purposes.
The Transition to Airtable: Streamlining Operations
Pedalar Sem Idade Portugal currently relies on Google tools to manage its operations. However, the team has recognized the need for a more streamlined solution. With data spread across multiple documents, the organization is transitioning its management system to Airtable, a platform designed to centralize and optimize operations.
The Operations team is already enthusiastic about this transition, but they require assistance to fully integrate Airtable into their processes. By implementing Airtable, Pedalar Sem Idade aims to enhance efficiency and ensure smoother management of its growing impact.
Get Involved Today
If you have a passion for giving back and making a difference in the lives of seniors, consider volunteering with Pedalar Sem Idade. Whether you are cycling through the streets of Lisbon or in any of the other participating cities, you will be part of a movement that is changing lives — one ride at a time.
To learn more about our mission, how to join us, or ways to support this meaningful project, please visit Pedalar Sem Idade Portugal.
About Pedalar Sem Idade
Cycling Without Age Portugal is a non-profit association that is part of the international Cycling Without Age movement. Its main objective is to combat unwanted loneliness and social isolation. This mission is accomplished through regular outdoor rides conducted on specially designed equipment known as “trishaws” (adapted bicycles). These rides are crewed by trained volunteer pilots.
