Charise Stephens-Merriweather

Charise Stephens-Merriweather is a dynamic community leader, youth advocate, and cycling equity champion based in Macon, Georgia. As the founder of U Create Macon, she has transformed a grassroots initiative into a nationally recognized youth development powerhouse, using bicycles as tools for empowerment, education, and mental wellness. In 2024, Stephens-Merriweather received the Bobby Pope Service to Sports Award from the Macon Sports Hall of Fame, honoring her contributions to youth sports and community wellness . She also serves as Macon-Bibb County’s Director of Small Business Affairs, where she has championed local and minority-owned businesses, helping the county exceed its participation goals for inclusive procurement. Beyond cycling, Stephens-Merriweather is a vocal advocate for youth mental health. She has emphasized the therapeutic power of outdoor activity, ensuring that all programs are free for families, funded through sponsorships and grants . Additionally, she serves on the Pedestrian Safety Review Board, contributing to infrastructure and policy improvements that make Macon’s streets safer for all residents. Her work with Major Taylor KIDZ and U Create Macon offers a replicable model for cities nationwide seeking to engage youth through bikes, history, and healing.

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Get More KIDZ On Bikes National Day and special outreach to get more minority kids on bikes