Exponential Impact: Project Pedal’s Story

September 12, 2025

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Written by: Olivia Ulmer
Photos by: Mike Anderson/FirstPlacePhoto

A thriving cycling community requires three things; a community of peers and friends, organized programming to provide opportunities for riding, and equipment that keeps up with progression. Bringing together all three is often easier said than done, but in NICA’s Delaware League, League Director Charles Barillo has cracked the code.

When looking for ways to grow their league and impact more riders, Charles knew funding was the first step. The registration fees that the Delaware League collect cover only a portion of the expenses they incur to put on events throughout the season, and there are always extra programs and scholarships that need to be funded to support the league's overarching goals.

“Providing financial assistance to kickstart the development of new teams has been at the forefront of the 2025 season. Securing funding is a necessity for the Delaware league to maximize growth and make the greatest impact on Delaware youth and families.”

Through a number of grants and community partners, Charles was able to secure the funds necessary to not only reach out to new communities, but also to support them in getting started.

At the forefront of these needs were supplies. Charles set his sights on purchasing six Mongoose bikes and helmets via the local DICK'S House of Sport Brandywine, with the express intent of creating access to the bikes students needed to try out mountain biking for the first time, or to allow them to participate in practices and events. He chose Mongoose because of the accessible price-point and because he knew they would be a great fit for new cyclists, as they are both durable and keep up with natural progression.

When determining who could best use these new tools, one organization jumped out. Project Pedal (and its parent organization, Pedal with Purpose) is the brainchild of George Corbin, Jr, known by most as Corbin. He started Pedal with Purpose in 2020 as an unofficial group for people who wanted a way to get out and exercise during COVID, and it quickly exploded.

Corbin met Charles at the Major Taylor Community Ride during Wilmington Grand Prix Weekend, through a mutual friend, Mel, who happened to be a NICA coach with the Delaware league.

“Prior to meeting Charles, I had heard a little about NICA but not much. Charles and I talked for about 10-15 minutes, exchanged numbers and about a week or so later we were meeting for breakfast to see if we could get more kids on bikes.”

When Corbin realized he could launch a NICA team through Project Pedal, he knew he would need lots of manpower and support. The first groups that came to mind were the New Castle Police Athletic Club and Project SEED, two community groups in the area who had a passion for supporting student-athletes through volunteering and service.

“I asked Charles when we first met if two organizations could come together to start a NICA team, and if the Police Athletic League in New Castle could be our hub. Project SEED and Pedal with Purpose came together to form Project Pedal!”

This conversation was the impetus for Charles to grant Project Pedal the Mongoose bikes. “Corbin and his team, the NCC Pal Center, NCC Police Force, Project Seed, and Pedal with Purpose have all come together to show their dedication to providing positive opportunities to youth through meetings and actions over the past few months. In addition to the commitment from adult champions, this team supports the mission of Delaware League at its roots— providing positive outdoor mountain biking experiences for youth who otherwise may not be able to participate in our programming without financial assistance.”

In the first few months of operation, the Project Pedal NICA team has already put their equipment to good use.

“The Mongoose bikes have already made a major impact! The kids didn’t have bikes that would adequately be able to handle trails, if they had a bike at all. These brand-new Mongooses give them something to be proud of. We receive calls and text messages from parents who are excited because of the excitement they see in their child. All these young people are extremely humble and would be happy with just about any bike given to them, but it didn’t happen that way. They were truly excited to have them. The smiles on their faces when Charles delivered the bikes are the moments we live for in this field of work.”

When thinking about the impact that Project Pedal can create in the future, Corbin has been blown away by the opportunities being a part of the DE NICA league has provided.

“Charles has opened opportunities for our youth that, to be completely honest, we weren’t even thinking about. We have participated in “learn to ride” events, bike repairs, and more, and we will continue to do so. We’re stronger working together, because NICA has the blueprint, and we have the passion and the kids to add to it!”

“Coach Mel reminded me the other day that, within just the very short period of time Project Pedal has existed, we have created an amazing group of committed kids and coaches. That doesn’t just happen without the equal level of commitment and passion that Charles gives every time we work together.”

As the Project Pedal NICA team prepares for their first official NICA events this fall, Corbin is stoked to see just how much impact the community can have on his kids. When he’s asked how people can get involved, he knows just what to say.

“My first response is to try it for yourself! NICA has made it simple, and what I love is that everyone has a place. If you don’t want to start a team but you want to volunteer, there is a place for you. If your child is new to the sport and is looking to be a part of something great with no pressure, there is a place for you. Last but certainly not least, if you want to do any of these with Project Pedal, we are always here!”