by Colleen Berlingieri
May is National Bike Month and there is an ever-expanding diversity of events in communities nationwide & around the world. From fashion shows to group rides, local groups are finding unique ways to celebrate their diverse bike cultures and community pride.
BIKE TO WORK DAY
This year Bike to Work day was Friday May 18th and according to the League of American Bicyclists, most of the largest U.S. cities will participate. And they say that those efforts are making a difference. According to the League’s research, the number of bicycle commuters in the U.S. grew by more than 62 percent between 2000 and 2013. Why? Because many people who participate in Bike to Work Day celebrations as first-time commuters become regular bike commuters which is great for the environment, national health and workday productivity.
For more information about Bike to Work Day events in your area visit The League of American Bicyclists website at www.bikeleague.org
BIKE TO SCHOOL DAY
Established in 2012, National Bike to School Day is an energetic, kid-centric part of National Bike Month and builds on the popularity of International Walk to School Day, held each October. This month Bike to School events were held in over 2,500 schools in all 50 states on May 9th. To learn more about this annual tradition visit www.walkbiketoschool.org
SO WHAT DOES ALL OF THIS HAVE TO DO WITH SPECIAL NEEDS?
This year, in honor of National Bike Week, we are giving away free FATWHEELS!
FATWHEELS are adaptive training wheels and bike stabilizing kits that allow individuals with balance issues to ride a typical bicycle. Usually, these people have participated in therapies and endured hours of practice but have still not mastered the skills they need to ride a bike successfully. Most have mild/moderate, chronic balance deficits but do not need the intensive support of an adaptive tricycle. Individuals that fall into this gap are exactly who we have designed FATWHEELS for.
If you or someone you know might benefit from a FREE set of FATWHEELS please fill out this the following form and tell us more about yourself or your rider:
https://www.fatwheels.com/need-help-deciding_a/276.htm
NOMINATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY THURSDAY MAY 31ST TO BE CONSIDERED FOR DRAWING.
NOTE: All entrants must agree to have a small bio and picture(s) of themselves or their rider published on our website and/or social media account(s).
Until next time,
Colleen
Colleen Berlingieri is a Mom, & Disability Advocate . She lives in Plymouth Michigan with her husband Tony, her two sons, (Geo & Jake), & their rescue dog Andi. Their family owns the FATWHEELS brand that makes adaptive training wheels that enable individuals with balance issues to ride a typical bike. Colleen’s dedication to raising her family & empowering individuals with disabilities is her life’s work and the driving force behind her company & all that she does.
