The Lincoln chapter of M.A.D. Dads is moving on without the everyday presence of its founder and board president, the Rev. Don Coleman.
Nearly a quarter-century has passed since the personable pastor was persuaded by Omaha leaders to create a MAD DADS (Men Against Destruction Defending Against Drugs and Social disorder) chapter in Lincoln.
In the early years, the nonprofit made a name for itself through patrolling the streets on weekends and removing graffiti. In recent years, the chapter has been synonymous with bike giveaways and running a recreation center to create healthy alternatives for kids.
The biggest bike giveaway of the year became an annual holiday tradition that put refurbished bicycles in the hands of kids who had none. And the individual with the biggest smile at the holiday events has belonged to Coleman, a kid at heart who never uttered the word "no" when it came to a child wanting a bike.
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Nearly 24 years after saying “yes†to a program that’s improved the lives of thousands of children, Coleman is cutting back – but not bowing out – on the time he's able to devote to the organization. Health problems the past two years and chronic back ailments that have plagued the Lincoln pastor since his military days in 1963 have forced the passionate president to pass the baton to Jeremiah Cain, whose methodical approach has kept the bike repair shop at 5610 Seward Avenue humming in Coleman’s absence.
Health issues
After a decorated career that included three gold keys from the city of Lincoln, Coleman is reducing his activity level to address his health issues. The local M.A.D. Dads board has accepted his resignation, named Cain the new president, and gave Coleman president emeritus status.
Coleman's medical history has included two knee replacements, two heart attacks, and a bout with cancer.
“Nothing is going away, except me coming to the office on a daily basis,†Coleman said last week from his home at 33rd and S streets. “Our mission remains the same, and the rec center continues to have regular hours,†he said. “I’m not severing ties, but I am stepping down as president.â€
Active leader
Until health issues arose in April 2015, Coleman was a daily fixture at M.A.D. Dads headquarters.
In 1993, he retired on a Friday as senior chaplain for the Lincoln police and fire departments. The following Monday, M.A.D. Dads leader Eddie Staton of Omaha was at his door, reminding Coleman of a promise he'd made to get involved in M.A.D. Dads after he retired.
Since that time, the man perhaps best known for fixing 10-speed bikes has known only one gear: full-speed ahead. The 79-year-old retired disabled Vietnam veteran has always had a soft spot in his heart for kids.
“I do it for the love of kids,†Coleman said last week. “That’s what has made going to the office every day so enjoyable … it’s all about the kids and the smiles on their faces, knowing what you’ve done helped put that smile there.â€
Countless volunteers
Coleman's medical history includes a combination of back problems and diabetes. Several years ago, he battled a severe case of gout. The combination of medical maladies cast a cloud over his ability to attend the annual bike giveaway three weeks ago. Physical therapist Kyle Klebs of CHI-St. Elizabeth and son Dondi Coleman Jr. paid an in-home visit that day and were able to transport him to the holiday party.
“They made it happen,†said the Rev. Ann Coleman, her husband’s key caregiver. “There’s no way that happens without their help.â€
A total of 120 bikes were given away that day to students representing over 20 schools.
Volunteer corps
Coleman says he’s been blessed by loyal volunteers who have shared his passion over the years including Dan Petersen (“he’s like bubble gum that sticks to your foot … he’s always thereâ€) … (former state senator) Marian Price … (the late) Colonel Paul Adams … Jack Zohner and his employees at John Henry’s … Mike Ayars … Ron Wilson, owner of Mattice Lock & Key … Lincoln developer Kent Thompson ... the owners of TMCO ... the list goes on.
In addition, M.A.D. Dads board member Jon Foreman and Apple Roofing combined to replace the Coleman home's roof back in October. Foreman paid the material costs, and Apple Roofing supplied the labor.
M.A.D. Dads suffered a major loss in late 2015, when vice president Davey Green lost his battle with diabetes.
'Blessed'
Six years ago, a rent-free offer courtesy of Veyance Technologies (formerly Goodyear Tire & Rubber) gave M.A.D. Dads sufficient space to expand. That offer remains intact. "We've been extremely blessed," said Coleman.
“There’s been so many people … I’m sure I’m forgetting a lot of them,†said Coleman, who hopes to host a retirement dinner in January to thank those who have contributed throughout the years.
Where from here
The bike repair shop is in the capable hands of Cain, a skilled mechanic who has been turning wrenches for nearly 25 years. His disabled status allows him to devote full time to M.A.D Dads.
Coleman said M.A.D. Dads’ plans for 2017 include the introduction of a new after-school program designed to act as a safe haven for middle school children.
Although the rent-free agreement and volunteer labor allow M.A.D. Dads to exist on a shoestring budget, funds are desperately needed to buy supplies to repair the bikes. The average cost to refurbish a bike exceeds $30.
“We’ve got only $250 in the treasury at the current time,†Coleman reported last week.
If you can help, send your donation to:
M.A.D. Dads
5610 Seward Ave.
Lincoln, NE 68510