Community Matters: iCan Bike Gwinnett

By Traci Sanders

One of the earliest and most fundamental memories a child can have involves learning to ride a bike. Not only does bike riding refine gross motor skills such as balancing and maintaining posture, but it also incorporates other skills such as hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness. Therefore, it represents a huge milestone in a child’s development – but also a lot of fun! Unfortunately, this hallmark event is not always afforded to everyone, especially those with disabilities.

The advocates at The Guide Project Inc. are working to change that by bringing the iCan Bike program back to Gwinnett for the second time! iCan Bike is a nationwide program that teaches people with disabilities to ride a two-wheel bike independently, through research-based methodology and specially trained instructors. It has an 80% success rate. The program partners with local host organizations to be able to travel the country, reaching as many campers as possible. That’s where The Guide Project comes in.

The Guide Project was founded by Dan and Stacey Cheney, who know firsthand how challenging yet rewarding it can be to parent children with diverse needs. And that challenging part is often due to difficulties in finding ways to ensure inclusion, in everything from school to extracurricular programs.

The couple resolved to find and create programs that would allow people with disabilities and their families to enjoy the same life-enriching experiences afforded to those without disabilities. And to do this not out of pity, but instead because they know the value inclusion brings to all.

With this focus on inclusion in mind, The Guide Project brought iCan Bike to Gwinnett County for the first time in 2019, with tremendous success. And after several years off due to the pandemic, they’re excited to bring it back. iCan Bike Gwinnett will take place at Summerour Middle School in Norcross June 12th – 16th.

Various levels of sponsorship, ranging from $250 to $1,500, are avail- able to businesses and individuals who wish to help raise funds and awareness. For those who are unable to contribute at these monetary levels, there are many other ways to show support, including volunteering time and providing in-kind donations, such as food and drinks.

All monetary contributions are tax deductible, and those made before June 12th will go toward costs associated with iCan Bike Gwinnett.

Of course, iCan Bike relies on its amazing volunteers to make it a success. And there are several ways to volunteer. One can choose to be a spotter. This person must be at least 15 years of age (unless accompanied by an adult), be able to attend 90-minute sessions during the 5-day training camp, have the physical capacity to support their assigned rider and jog alongside them, as well as possess the maturity to address the rider’s physical and emotional needs while offering encouragement.

If being a spotter isn’t a fit, other skills are welcome. Those with artistic and graphic design skills can create signage. Social butterflies can greet guests at the entrance and distribute refreshments. And cheerleaders are always welcome, to keep the riders in good spirits and having fun.

Whether it’s the gift of time, money, or simply being present to encourage these riders, every contribution makes a difference.

More information at https://www.guideeachother.org/.