Foundation puts different spin on bikes

Andrew McLindon, a Baton Rouge native and an LSU graduate, owns Mainspring Companies. But he’s most proud of its nonprofit McLindon Family Foundation and the Bikes for Christmas Program. McLindon and his six siblings have successful lives, so they created the foundation four years ago to give back to the community. A common family interest is bike riding, so it was a natural fit for them. They order the special bikes from companies as far away as Germany, and family members assemble them in home garages and work warehouses. At one warehouse, McLindon happily spreads out his tools to work on a large blue tricycle. He enjoys creating joy for these children, who have spina bifida, multiple sclerosis or have suffered strokes following heart transplants. “I get really excited just hearing about a child’s eyes lighting up when he discovers this special present from Santa,” McLindon says. “Families send so many photos and emails that week and long after of the kids enjoying their bikes. It makes me smile.” Read the full story in 225 magazine here.