The ICAN Bike program will come to Lakeland School of Walworth County, Elkhorn, June 19 to 23.
The program, sponsored by the Autism Society of Southeast Wisconsin and the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin, aims to teach individuals with disabilities how to ride a conventional bike and become a lifelong independent rider.
ICAN Bike uses a fleet of adapted bicycles, a specialized instructional program and trained staff. Riders attend the same 75-minute session for the five consecutive days of camp week, where they are physically assisted and encouraged by two volunteer “spotters.” Over the course of the five-day camp, the adapted bike is adjusted to gradually introduce more instability in an effort to challenge riders at their own individual paces. The week is concluded with an award ceremony.
ICAN Bike riders are children 8 years old and older, teenagers and adults who have a diagnosed disability but are able to walk without assistive devices and step from side to side. To register or to learn more about the program, visit assew.org/bikecamp2017.
More information about the event at Lakeland School can be obtained by calling Rosemary Gardner at (262) 741-4118.
Volunteers are needed throughout the day as spotters for riders or to cheer them on. To see volunteer requirements and to register as a volunteer, visit assew.org/bikecamp2017 and scroll down to volunteer information. For questions about volunteering, call Colleen Lesniak at Walworth County Volunteer Services at (262) 741-4223.
