Volunteering at the Local BMX Track // Building Ownership and Community

BMX tracks are more than just places to ride; they are gathering spots that bring together riders, families, and enthusiasts of all ages. These tracks don’t run themselves—they rely heavily on volunteers to keep the gates operating, the dirt packed, and the atmosphere welcoming. When individuals step forward to donate their time and effort, something transformative happens: they begin to see the track not just as a facility they use, but as a shared home they help nurture. This sense of involvement creates a powerful connection between the rider and the community space.

Ownership is not simply about possession; it is about responsibility. When a person contributes to the upkeep of their BMX track—whether through raking the berms, painting fences, or running registration—they develop a sense of pride in what they have helped maintain. Suddenly, the track is no longer just “theirs to use,” but something they are accountable for preserving. This shared responsibility fosters respect for the facility and for the countless hours other volunteers also pour into it.

Volunteering also helps create a culture of gratitude and appreciation. Riders who spend time behind the scenes learn just how much effort it takes to keep a race running smoothly. They begin to understand that the gate operator, the concession worker, and the track maintenance crew all play vital roles in making race day possible. This awareness often translates into greater appreciation for the sport as a whole, deepening the connection between participants and the BMX community.

Moreover, volunteering encourages teamwork and collaboration. A BMX track thrives only when people come together for a common purpose. Volunteers of all backgrounds work side by side, solving problems and celebrating successes. In this environment, barriers between people—whether generational, social, or skill-based—tend to dissolve. What emerges instead is a culture of cooperation, where everyone’s contributions matter and where unity is forged through shared effort.

For young riders especially, seeing adults and peers volunteer can be a powerful form of mentorship. It teaches them that community involvement is just as important as competition, and that success isn’t measured solely in trophies but in the strength of the community that supports them. When youth are encouraged to pitch in—even in small ways like sweeping or helping younger kids at practice—they learn the value of giving back and carrying forward traditions of stewardship.

On a broader level, volunteering strengthens bonds between families and the larger community. Parents who serve in volunteer roles not only support their children but also create opportunities to connect with other families. Friendships form, support networks grow, and what began as an individual activity becomes a communal experience. These relationships extend beyond the track, creating a strong web of support that often enriches other areas of community life.

There is also an empowering element to volunteering: it allows people to shape the environment they care about. Volunteers get to see the direct impact of their work, whether in smoother turns, more efficient race days, or happier participants. This visibility reinforces the idea that their contributions truly matter. As a result, volunteers gain a sense of ownership that motivates them to keep giving, knowing their work has lasting value.

In the end, volunteering at a local BMX track is not only about maintaining the physical space. It is about cultivating a spirit of belonging, respect, and collaboration. Through shared effort, individuals come to see the track as an extension of themselves and their community. This sense of ownership ensures that the track is not just sustained but strengthened, becoming a place where riders of all ages can thrive together. By giving back, volunteers create something larger than themselves: a vibrant, resilient BMX community rooted in pride and connection.

All images used with permission from Chehalem Valley BMX.

Categories: Advocacy, Opinion