Volunteers Needed for Spring Vacation Bike Camp

Volunteers are needed during school vacation week, April 20 -24, to assist at a bike camp in Groton for children with disabilities. Hosted by Emerson Hospital's Center for Rehabilitative and Sports Therapies called iCan Shine, open to people at least eight years old who have a disability and are able to walk without an assistive device. Trained counselors and volunteer spotters will work with campers to teach them how to ride a conventional bike. Camp held in conjunction with Lawrence Academy, RJ Bradley Bike and Ski, Jamis Bikes, Hilton Garden Inn of Devens, CSA Graphics, and Awards on Time.

Volunteers need to be at least 16 years old and available for one or two bike sessions each day Mon.-Fri. of school vacation week. All sessions held at hockey rink at Lawrence Academy, 26 Powder House Rd. Session times: 8:30-9:45 a.m.; 10:05-11:20 a.m.; 11:40 a.m.-12:55 p.m.; and 2-3:15 p.m. They must attend same session(s) each day, and will be trained by professional counselors. Volunteers will earn 10-20 hours of community service, a t-shirt and a certificate from Emerson Hospital.

Camp is run by iCan Shine, non-profit organization. Using adapted bicycle equipment, professionals, including pediatric physical therapists from Emerson, and volunteers work with each camper to help meet their goals of biking independently. With 75 minutes of daily instruction over five consecutive days, more than 80% of campers learn to ride independently by the end of camp, and nearly all campers make great progress towards biking on their own.

For more info and to register as a volunteer, visit: http://icanshine.org/ican-bike-groton-ma/ or email Mary Evans, PT at icanshinebike_rehab@emersonhosp.org.