Volunteer Overview

Volunteer Overview

Bike Camp Dates: June 25-29, 2012

A mandatory meeting for parents and volunteers will be held Sunday, June 24, 2012 at 6pm at Cudahy High School.

Cudahy High School
4950 South Lake Drive
Cudahy, WI 53110

Being able to ride a two-wheeler is a societal rite of passage and an age-appropriate activity. In spite of the fact that a large majority of children get past training wheels, the reality exists that training wheels represent the end of the bicycling trail for a percentage of children. Specifically, children with disabilities struggle to adapt and learn to ride a two-wheel bicycle. 

Benefits of riding a two-wheeler include an infectious smile, peer inclusion, building of self-esteem, family lifestyle enhancement, increased activity and mobility, increased cognitive stimulation, and better physical fitness.  The cost of not being able to ride a bike is significant, not just for the lost social benefits and enjoyment, but also for personal development.  Individuals with disabilities often rely on riding a two-wheel bicycle for job opportunities and other independent living needs.

Children with disabilities such as Autism, Down syndrome and Cerebral Palsy are taught how to ride and transition to a conventional bike within a 5-day period. The program utilizes adapted bikes and techniques.  Spotters are needed to run alongside the child as they progress through the program.

By volunteering as a Spotter with the Lose the Training Wheels bike camp you are offering your time to change a child’s life as they accomplish something they never believed they could achieve.  You are giving them the chance to experience what could be an emotional lifetime high. 

A Spotter is someone who is matched with a child each session to provide physical support and emotional encouragement.  This is a physical activity that requires you to run one quarter mile a number of times.  Volunteers should be physically capable of steadying a large child.  In addition, volunteers must be patient and understand that this child is undertaking a very difficult task.