If you’re looking for an innovative project to provide inspiration, look no further than 88 bikes. The brainchild of brothers Dan and Jared Austin, 88 bikes linked individual donors (whose donations bought bikes) with kids in an orphanage in Cambodia. All 88 kids, to be exact. The kids received not only bikes, but also locks, helmets, and shoes. Some will be participating in apprenticeships with Phnom Penh bike shops, where they will become onsite mechanics and can also help other recipients with the upkeep of their bikes.

How did it all start? Documentary filmmaker Dan Austin and his brother Jared, a pediatrician working at a children’s hospital in Siem Reap, organized it all, commencing with a 1000-mile bike ride adventure through Cambodia, and ending with the donation of their bikes – as well as 86 donated bikes – to young people aged 5 – 17 at a Phnom Penh orphanage. They started this initiative in 2006, and hope to support a bike culture which can continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for the children long after they receive the donated bikes.

In January 2008, they are planning to bring another 88 bikes to an orphanage outside Kampala, in Uganda. At the moment, you can donate through their site to the Cambodia orphanage and to add your name to an email list to be notified when they begin accepting donations for Uganda. While the 88 bikes website does not feature a request for volunteers, it appears that behind the scenes volunteers have played an important role; you may be able to see if opportunities exist at the Palm Tree Orphanage from the Cambodia project. You can also read more about 88 bikes on the 88 bikes blog.