I wasn't offended or anything and I'm sure there are cases where you're right. I just didn't want people to get the idea that all, or even most, co-ops are theft rings. I'm not what would normally be considered a co-op kind of person...I definitely enjoy making money and I work for a corporation. At the same time, I really value what my particular co-op does and I see that it really helps some kids. It also promotes cycling by giving people that can't afford LBS repairs or tools an option for fixing their stuff. Sure...most of the volunteers could safely be labeled as dirty, silly, idealistic kids...but I was a dirty, silly, idealistic kid once.

One thing I find funny is that the kids who go there all want BMXs. We have a points system where kids have to earn so many points to get different bikes...and BMXs cost them the most. What you end up with is kids getting $50 wal-mart BMX bikes instead of Cannondales, mid-range Schwinns and Raleighs...etc. and work harder to do it! I try to explain that they could earn fewer points and get a more valuable bike...sell it and buy a new BMX, with profit left over...but they don't usually understand or are intimidated about trying to sell it.