Children, youth, and adults with disabilities can achieve a dream – learning to ride a bicycle – at the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center’s annual “iCan Bike” day camp June 1-5 at Evansville’s National Guard Armory. Registration deadline is May 6 and spots are still available. For details or to sign up, contact Patty Balbach, 812-479-1411, ext. 268, pbalbach@evansvillerehab.com.
“iCan Bike” is designed for individuals age 8 and up with mild to moderate disabilities or disabling conditions (such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism, coordination issues, etc.). Participants receive individual assistance while progressing through a series of uniquely modified and adapted bicycles. Each “camper” attends for 75 minutes per day. By the end of the week, the majority of participants overcome their fears, build their confidence, and achieve their goal of independently riding a regular two-wheeled bike with no training wheels or adaptations!
Registration cost of $200 per person helps Easterseals bring the fleet of uniquely adapted bicycles to Evansville. The fee includes the five-day “bike camp,” a bicycle safety helmet, and an “iCan Bike” t-shirt. Financial assistance is available for bikers in need, thanks to generous donors. To financially sponsor one or more participants, please contact Patty Balbach, 812-479-1411, ext. 268, or pbalbach@evansvillerehab.com.
Volunteers are needed to help “iCan Bike” participants achieve their dreams of riding a bicycle. Volunteers must be 15 or older, be able to run beside a child on a bike, and be available daily June 1-5 during specific session times (8:00am-12:30pm OR 1:00pm-4:30pm OR both). The event offers an excellent opportunity for high school and college students who need to acquire service hours. Potential volunteers should sign up in advance by calling 812-479-1411, ext. 268, or emailing pbalbach@evansvillerehab.com.
