More than 30 years ago, a small group of Birmingham mountain bikers decided they wanted something better. They did not wait for someone else to build trails, organize rides, or create a community. They rolled up their sleeves and built it themselves.

That spirit still defines BUMP today. Volunteers have helped us expand and maintain more than 100 miles of trail, host major events, introduce new riders to the sport, and build strong partnerships with land managers, foundations, businesses, and community organizations.

BUMP is stronger than it has ever been, but that growth has created a new challenge. The opportunities in front of us are now greater than what volunteers can manage in their spare time.

Every grant application, trail project, event, partnership, and volunteer effort requires consistent attention. To protect what our community has built and continue moving forward, BUMP is preparing to hire its first full time Executive Director.

This person will focus every day on securing funding, managing projects, strengthening relationships with land managers and community partners, coordinating volunteers, expanding programs, and advocating for mountain biking throughout the Birmingham region.

This position will not replace our volunteers. It will give them the support they need to accomplish more.

Our Three Year Plan

We believe BUMP needs a strong financial foundation before making this commitment. Our goal is to secure approximately $300,000, enough to support the position for its first three years while giving the Executive Director time to develop sustainable funding for the future.

BUMP has already committed $100,000 from funds we have carefully saved and placed in a dedicated Executive Director account. We are now working to raise the remaining $200,000 through grants, multiyear pledges, corporate partnerships, and community giving.

BUMP could afford to hire someone today, but doing so would require us to reduce the trail maintenance, advocacy, events, and programs that define our mission. We do not believe building a staff should come at the expense of the work that staff member would be hired to support.

That is why we are looking for mission based partners and individual donors who believe in the value of trails, outdoor recreation, and a stronger mountain biking community.

Why This Matters

Imagine where BUMP could be five years from now with someone working full time for mountain biking in Birmingham.

More trails. Better maintained trail systems. Stronger events and programs. More opportunities for women, veterans, adaptive riders, and new participants. Better coordination with our land managers. Greater access to funding. Stronger advocacy. More places to ride and more people discovering the sport we love.

This is about protecting everything our volunteers have built while creating the capacity to pursue opportunities that are currently beyond our reach.

Every contribution to our Year End Giving Campaign will be added to the $100,000 BUMP has already committed to the Executive Director fund. Whether you make a personal donation, organize a fundraiser, or connect us with a business or foundation partner, you will be helping build a sustainable future for mountain biking in Birmingham.

The future of our trails and our community will not be determined by someone else. It will be determined by all of us.

If BUMP has made a difference in your life, please help us ensure it can make that same difference for generations to come.