In Howard County, Maryland, one BGE employee is proving that a bicycle can be a powerful vehicle for change. Dave Susseles, Principal Business Analyst at BGE, has been a driving force behind the company’s partnership with Free Bikes 4 Kidz (FB4K) since 2020 — a mission that’s not just about bikes, but about freedom, joy, and community.
Dave’s journey with FB4K began during the height of the pandemic. With social distancing in full effect, he was on hand to help stage a bike giveaway at the Howard County Community College parking deck. Dave recalls the moment a child was told, “Pick one,” as they stood before a row of bikes. The look of pure joy and disbelief on their face was unforgettable. “That’s how you know you made a difference,” he says.
But Dave’s impact goes far beyond that one event. Each year, with the support of supervisors and leadership he coordinates with service centers across BGE to organize bike donations, cleaning sessions, and build events. The employees like volunteer events that are created in their workspace. Using the skills they have in a new way to assemble bikes to benefit others. What started in Electric Distribution New Business division has now grown to include six service centers and multiple divisions — from Gas and Transmission to Customer Operations. The initiative has become a company-wide movement, fueled by friendly competition and shared purpose.
“Good Energy,” Dave says, “is about giving back. It’s about connecting with others around a mission everyone can relate to. Everyone remembers their first bike — that first taste of independence.”
Even in the face of challenges, Dave’s commitment never wavered. In the first year, bikes were shipped to 20 volunteers’ homes. Assembly happened virtually — in living rooms, garages, and backyards — creating unexpected moments of connection. “We saw children and pets and learned a bit more about each other,” he shares. “It let us connect as people, not just co-workers.”
Now in its sixth year, the FB4K partnership continues to grow, with familiar faces returning year after year. Dave’s ability to network and rally support across departments has made him a true connector — someone who brings people together for a cause that matters.
As for what’s next? Dave is excited to keep the momentum going, expanding the reach and deepening the impact. His story is a reminder that one person’s passion can spark a movement — and that sometimes, the path to making a difference starts with a bike.
