Volunteer Bike Camp Coach Riders with Disabilities

This summer, we’re excited to host iCan Shine Bike Camp—a life‑changing program that teaches individuals with disabilities how to ride a two‑wheeled bike. Learning to ride builds confidence, independence, and inclusion, and volunteers play a vital role in making that possible.

Date:
July 6–10

We’re currently seeking volunteers to support riders throughout the week‑long camp.

• Session 1: 8:30–9:45
• Session 2: 10:05–11:20
• Session 3: 11:40–12:55
• Session 4: 2:00–3:15
• Session 5: 3:35–4:50

iCan Shine uses a fleet of adapted bicycles, a specialized instructional program, and trained staff to teach individuals with disabilities to learn to ride a two‑wheel bike independently. Participants attend one 75‑minute session each day for five consecutive days, where they learn to ride while accompanied and encouraged by a volunteer. Gradually, the riders discover the skill and joy of riding a bike.

We will have approximately 30 riders in total, with up to 6 riders for each 75‑minute session each day. Each rider attends the same 75‑minute session for each of the 5 days (M–F) and is assigned two volunteers who will work with the rider throughout the week. This works great because bonds are formed between the volunteers and riders, helpful for encouragement and motivational purposes throughout the week.

It is important for our riders to work with the same volunteer each day, building a trusting relationship as they go through the intensive week. The riders will ride a specialized bicycle designed to teach them to balance for the entire 75 minutes each day while being accompanied by their assigned volunteers. Camp staff will also provide motivational teaching on a specially designed tandem bicycle that is generally well received by most riders.

The first two days of the bike camp (Mon & Tues) will take place solely on adapted indoor roller bikes. Beginning on the third day (Wed), some riders may graduate to a two‑wheel bike and transition to riding outdoors, monitored by their assigned volunteers. As riders graduate from the roller bikes to a two‑wheel bike between Wednesday and Friday, they will transition to the outdoor riding area.

Finally, it is very rewarding for the volunteer to have spent the whole week with the rider to see the fruits of their labor on the last day when the rider finally rides independently.

• At least 14 years old (unless accompanied by an adult)
• Able to attend 90 minutes at the same time each of the 5 days of camp (15 minutes of training/daily debriefing)
• Able to provide physical, emotional, and motivational support to assigned rider
• Able and willing to get some exercise (light jogging/running) for a great cause!
• Able to attend the Volunteer Meeting on Sunday, July 5 at 4 pm. Contact (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). if this is a conflict.

For more information, please email