Built on the belief that work changes everything.
WeRide started with a simple idea: give a man a bike, connect him to work, and watch what happens. What we found is that employment isn't just income — it's identity, routine, and a reason to move forward.
Employment as a path out of homelessness.
WeRide exists to break the cycle of homelessness through dignified, accessible employment. We believe every man deserves the chance to earn his own way — and that the right tools, support, and opportunity can make that possible. E-bikes are our vehicle. Employment is our mission. Community is our foundation.
A conversation on a Brooklyn corner
WeRide was founded in 2019 after our founder; Shaun Robinson spent a year living in a Brooklyn shelter. He kept hearing the same thing from the men he met: they didn't want handouts — they wanted work. But without an address, a credit history, or a way to get around the city, traditional employment felt out of reach
Shaun bought three e-bikes with his own savings, partnered with two local delivery companies, and placed the first three WeRide riders. Within six months, all three had stable housing. That proof of concept became a program. That program became WeRide.
Today we operate across all five boroughs, with a growing fleet, a network of employer partners, and a team of coordinators who have often walked the same road as the men they serve.
Our values.
Dignity First
Every interaction — from application to employment — is built around respect. We don't ask men to prove their worth. We give them the tools to demonstrate it.
Real Employment
We don't offer busy work. WeRide connects men to genuine income-generating opportunities with real earning potential and room to grow.
Long-Term Support
Getting a job is step one. We stay alongside our riders for up to 12 months, helping them access housing, banking, and the next chapter.
Community-Rooted
Our team includes people who have experienced homelessness themselves. We build from the inside out, not the top down.
The people behind WeRide.
James Okafor
Founder & Executive Director
Former shelter volunteer turned social entrepreneur. James has spent 15 years working in workforce development across New York City.
Denise Reyes
Director of Programs
Denise oversees rider onboarding, training, and ongoing support. She brings 10 years of experience in nonprofit program management.
Marcus Webb
Fleet & Operations Manager
Marcus manages the e-bike fleet, maintenance schedule, and logistics. He joined WeRide as a rider in 2021 and never left.
What the numbers say.
Men employed since 2019
Achieved stable housing within 6 months
Average monthly earnings per rider
Days average time from application to first ride
Join the ride.
Whether you want to apply, donate, or partner — there's a place for you in the WeRide community.