ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - The Men on a Mission group spread holiday cheer in Albany by giving away more than 300 bicycles to children in the community, aiming to ensure every child had something to open this Christmas.

The group hosted the bike giveaway at the Charles Driskell Park Community Center, drawing hundreds of families from across the area. Organizers said the event was about more than bikes — it was about inspiring the next generation.

“Oh, it makes me feel real happy knowing that we can give back and honor those that came before us,” said Tavis Sibley, co-chairman of Men on a Mission. “And hopefully the kids that see what we’re doing, they’re able to grow and do the same thing that we’re doing even better.”

Men on a Mission began collecting bicycles for the event in January, ensuring a variety of bikes were available so children of all ages could receive one.

Edward Mims, a board member of the group, said the giveaway was especially meaningful because he grew up in the neighborhood.

“This event means a whole lot to me,” Mims said. “To be able to come back into the community and give away these bikes, it just feels great to give back to the place where I was raised.”

In addition to the bike giveaway, the event featured a three-point basketball contest, with winners taking home cash, TVs, and other prizes. Sibley said surrounding himself with people who share the same commitment to community service is what motivates him to continue hosting events like this.

“I’ve been giving back for a long time, and to get with like-minded people who want to help the community, it’s a beautiful thing,” Sibley said.

Organizers said they hope the annual giveaway continues to grow and inspire others to invest in Albany’s future.

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