Testimonials

We believe the value and benefits of iCan Shine programs are best summarized by our fans. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve others and are proud of the relationships developed through iCan Shine programs. Our fans talk and we listen… and we like what we hear.

Takoma Park
Alicia

“I just wanted to thank you on behalf of Trisomy 21 Foundation of NNY for an incredible iCan Bike camp. From the start, all my many questions were answered quickly and guidance was available throughout the planning process. Kevin and Kelli were amazing! We had riders ranging from age 8 to 59 and their expertise and professionalism made each rider feel accomplished and special. The feedback from our community has been overwhelming. We had volunteers tell us that the week has changed them for the better, parents tell us about the joy of seeing their children ride, spectators tell us they had to see it to believe it. Thank you iCan Bike for this program which really does change the lives of every person involved.”

Charlotte NC

“We are incredibly satisfied, your staff are amazing and the support from Shine is largely why we are so successful here in Charlotte.”

Middletown OH

“This is a fabulous camp and have been very happy with all areas of your service.”

Topeka KS

“This was the 6th year for Easter Seals Capper Foundation to host, my first year being here and helping. The event was organized, the iCan Shine staff were knowledgeable and helpful. I can’t think of anything that needs improvement.”

Spokane WA

“I am thrilled and hear nothing but great things from parents, sponsors and riders themselves. We LOVE it!”

San Antonio TX

“Things are going great. We love the partnership with iCan Shine. Thank you.”

Richardson TX

“You all are doing an amazing job. Parents often comment that they wish the camp was longer than a week and could go on throughout the year.”

West Hartford CT

“You all are doing an amazing job. Parents often comment that they wish the camp was longer than a week and could go on throughout the year.”

Sarnia ON

“You are a well oiled machine.”

Cambridge ON

“We love your program!!! Our families love the program and the smiles on the riders face say the exact same thing!”

Jordan White

“My son had just turned 11 years old shortly before camp began. He was extremely nervous about riding a bike since he had a spill on his bike when he was 7 years old. I couldn’t get him near a bike let alone to try and ride one.

It had been a rough year and his confidence was suffering. All of that changed with iCan Bike camp! I was skeptical and rather pessimistic that a short camp could have much effect on his ability to ride a bike, but thankfully I was dead wrong!

From start to finish this program was nothing short of amazing and as a single mom a miracle! Not only does my newly minted middle schooler ride his bike with a big smile on his face, but he has a bike and helmet that are specifically fitted to him that I wouldn’t be able to afford otherwise. Thank you Levi for your brotherly love to all riders and the bicycle/helmet donated in your name as it will be used for many years to come.

The staff, supervisor, and volunteers were wonderful and cheered my son along the way. I was blessed to be able to see his last day of camp and when he started riding his bike I don’t think I’ve felt so proud. My heart soared and melted all at once. It was a moment I thought would never happen and now everytime I see him riding his bike I am just forever thankful for all of those involved in his success!!! Thank you so much!!!!”

Kristal

“My daughter always showed an interest in riding a bike but struggled to succeed. After completing this program, she is riding her bike with little assistance and she is actually enjoying herself outside. I love the confidence she has gained in accomplishing this goal!”

Jennifer Tweedie

“I call all the iCanShine staff miracle workers. My 11 year old daughter who has autism participated as a camper and I participated as a volunteer. Additionally, I am a physical therapist.The children participating as campers had a variety of developmental challenges including cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. I never expected that most of them would achieve independent cycling outside within 5 days. The progression of skills with the roller wheels and tandem cycling is absolute genius. My daughter now can ride with myself and her brothers. We have even ridden on the carriage paths in our home state National Park – Acadia. Being able to ride a bike has given her confidence and pride. Thank you SO much!”

Margaret Gregory for Shawn Gregory

“We biked as a family for years. At first little Shawn rode in the baby basket, then on the back of our tandem where he would just prop his feet up on the bar and hang onto the handle bars. In high school we got him an adult tricycle. Many in our family tried to help him pedal, balance, and manage turns to no avail. I gave up. BUT THEN the ICAN BIKE CAMP advertisement showed up on Facebook. What an amazing, life-changing experience for him! I can not say THANK YOU enough!”

Agostino Menna

“We learned about the bike camp from the John McGivney Centre in Windsor. They directed us to the Kind Minds Organization located in Windsor as well who was sponsoring an ICan Bike camp. My 8 year old grandson who has Cerebral Palsy, loves biking and we enjoy many rides in the summer. He’s always used a small two wheeler with training wheels. We entered the camp the first day and met founders Chris and Jess from Kind Minds along with Shaun and Julie as well as Sam and Megan from ICan Bike. Along with them and the numerous hard working volunteers, my grandson started off. I’ll be honest as the days went on that maybe this may not be possible for him. They, along with the young volunteers (who deserve so much credit) assured me to wait and watch. By Friday, he was riding solo even with a very weak left hand and leg. This is amazing! This program and all people who work there, sponsor and volunteer deserve thanks and praise. Keep up the miraculous work!”

Najla Poullard

“When I say this camp is a blessing in disguise I truly mean it. My son Elias went from straddling the bike and jumping right off to riding with assistance. Now we still have a long way to go but the joy on his face riding the stand-alone and the tandem bike was priceless. I highly recommend the I can shine bike program!!!!”

Maria

“Seeing my little kid having fun and starting something new. Any step is great, go ahead. Thank you for all staff and volunteers. Great program”

Angie Brock

“Lily was always afraid to attempt to ride a 2 wheel bike. Her answer always being “I might fall and hurt myself” and would shake with fear anytime we would attempt to have her try. After her iCan Bike camp, she is now riding her very own 2 wheeled bike independently. We were skeptical that she would not be able to after only one week but the camp is geared for it to be possible. She is so proud of herself and now asks us to go on bike rides all the time. We love seeing her more active and her self-esteem elevated along with her mood. We are so proud of her and so grateful to all of the staff and the volunteers at iCan Bike! Thank you so much!”

Nikki H

“This camp/program and the people..ALL AMAZING! Our son did this camp 2 years ago and it still brings tears to my eyes thinking about what an incredible experience this was for him. To this day, I marvel at how amazing he does on his bike! Thanks to this camp, he is confident and never gave up!! Will forever support and tell others about this program!!”

Maria

“My expectations were completely exceeded from the iCan Bike program. My son is typically very scared and nervous to try new things but the iCan staff and volunteers were so amazing and patient to work with him. His confidence level was so high, even after the first session, that we were amazed to see how well he was doing. He exceeded all our expectations and met his goal to ride a two-wheeled bike in 3 days! Something we had not been able to teach him on our own. I was appreciative of how considerate the staff was of the wording they used for the participants to ensure that they were encouraging them but not setting them up for failure. This program was so wonderful and we had so many happy tears watching him go through this week.”

Adaline Mills

“I want to go to bike camp again. I had so much fun!”

Lilian

Learning to ride a bike (again) after 51 years
“I rode a bike throughout high school and left it behind when I left home to go on to further schooling a long distance away. Then I got married and had children and life was busy. In the back of my mind I still remember the enjoyment I experienced from riding a bike while growing up and always wished that I would be able to ride a bike again. For almost 30 years we lived on a gravel road, so bike riding there was not practical. When we were in Europe in 2008 I tried to ride my sister’s bike and it was a fearful experience. I could not make the transition from standing on the ground to getting my foot up on the pedal. I felt I needed to learn how to ride a bike again, but who wants to run beside an elderly woman holding on to the back of her bike while she learns to ride a bike? The opportunity to learn never seemed to present itself.

Fast forward. On Saturday, May 30, 2015 there was an article in our paper the Ames Tribune (Iowa) about an iCan Bike Camp for people with disabilities to learn to ride bikes. Immediately I wondered if I would be able to join. There were only 13 registered campers at the time with a possibility of 40. The worst that could happen to me was they could refuse and say it was only for those with disabilities. I called first thing on Monday morning and was allowed to join the campers as number 14. I had to look past it that I was a 68 year old woman learning to ride next to young children. But I wanted to (re)learn so badly to ride a bike.

The camp itself was such a good experience, the staff were friendly and so helpful and were right beside me the whole time, except of course on the last day. Plus the bikes were equipped with a roller for the back wheel and also a long handle so the staff could hold onto the bike as needed. As the days went by my confidence returned, I even learned how to get my foot up on the pedal and get going. The only thing I did not really enjoy was the tandem bike, the rider behind me was going too fast for me, it was actually scary. I would have preferred that we could have gone at my comfortable speed. Other than that I am so glad I was able to have this experience.

I know that this event is for people with disabilities and I think that is such a great idea and to see the kids smile as they are riding around on their own because they have mastered riding a bike. However, as an older person, I am so thankful I was able to be a part of this and hope that in the future you will reserve a spot or two for the elderly. This is such a good way for us to get some much needed exercise.”

Colleen

“When I was younger, I really wanted to ride a two wheeler.  However, my parents kept telling me I wasn’t ready.  I tried a few times but always fell.  It was really frustrating.  I felt left out because my younger brother and friends could ride a bike but I couldn’t.  I gave up on learning to ride and was convinced that I would never be able to do it.

Then last spring, my Mom came across the iCan Bike Camp online and asked me if I was interested.  I immediately said yes!  When I got to the camp for the first time, I was nervous.  I was still not sure I would be able to ride a bike.  But once I got the training bike, I felt confident.  I had an amazing week at the camp!  My volunteers, Dom and Trish were very supportive of me and always gave positive reinforcement.

By the end of the week, I could ride a two wheeler independently.  I was so excited and so was my family.  Now I enjoy riding on the bike path at the park near my house.  I would recommend iCan Bike to anyone with a disability because it helped me to not only ride a bike but also believe in myself!”

Ben

“I can do anything”

William

“This has been the important opportunity of my life!”

Liz

“I didn’t think I would ever be able to ride a bike and I told my parents that the whole trip from Florida to Virginia. Every time I tried to ride my bike without training wheels I would fall. It is really frustrating when all your friends and younger cousins can ride a two wheel bike and you can’t.

When we got to bike camp on Monday morning, everyone was very nice and wanted to help me learn how to ride a bike. I loved Ms. Lisa, Ms. Heidi and my volunteer. I was able to ride the first bike and it was really easy and fun and I wasn’t scared after a while. When I left camp the first day, I was really excited! I was really going to learn how to ride a two-wheel bike!

The second day was great too and I was starting to feel very confident. The third day was a lot harder but I still did it. The fourth day I got too tense and fell down but Ms. Heidi ran behind me for the rest of the day and I felt better when I left. The last day was the BEST day! I rode my two-wheel bike all over the gym, all by myself! It was the most amazing feeling! I was so proud of myself and so were my parents and sister and all the volunteers and instructors.

We drove all the way back to Florida the next day and I rode my bike all by myself for my whole family to watch. Everyone cheered and said great job. I try and ride my bike everyday for at least 20 minutes and sometimes my parents take me and my sister to a bike trail near our house. The last time we went, I rode for 5 miles straight, with only a couple of stops and I was ahead of my entire family the whole time!

I hope one day that I can compete in a bike race or triathalon. I’ve learned that you can do anything you want if you try hard enough and you believe in yourself.”

Seth

The Time I Learned How to Ride a Bike’

“One morning I got up feeling something I never felt. I felt confident. It was August, 2011. My mom and I got in her car and drove to Notre Dame College. I was going to learn to ride a… bike. A group called Lose the Training Wheels came to Cleveland. It was a 5-day camp to teach kids to ride a bike. My helper was Victoria and she had a red hat and shorts. The director names were Nikki and Matt. When I got on the bike I went slow and I was scared. I said to myself, “I can do this just take it easy”. The next day the Fox 8 news team came and interviewed me. They put a microphone on my shirt. I said, “I’m proud!”. So they video taped me on my bike but just then I bumped into another boy and he got mad at me. I said I was sorry and he forgave me.
Then next it was the last day. Everyone was sad to say goodbye. So it was the day I have been waiting for all my life. So I got on the bike and zoomed down the sidewalk. Everyone started to cheer me on. Then I stopped and rode back and then everyone clapped! I felt like crying because I was so happy! Then they had an award ceremony. They gave out trophies. They called my name. I came up to get it and it said, “LTTW Cleveland Seth Gelwasser” and I got a Mitchell’s gift card. Now I know how to ride a bike!!!!!!!!!! Thanks to Lose the Training Wheels. That was a perfect ending of a perfect day. I learned practice makes perfect!”

Nathaniel

“I’d like to thank you for helping me ride a bike. I didn’t think I could ride one before. Give the others my thanks.”

Jacob

“It’s not the same anymore!”

Kyle

“For the past eight years, my parents have been trying to get me to ride a bike. It had gotten to the point where I had given up and didn’t care to ride one anymore. But now that I can, I realize how much fun it is. Thank you for helping me out”

Ron Eichman

“iCan Bike Lehigh Valley, PA.

To the Dietrich family, thank for the opportunity to assist with the rider’s personal bikes. Amanda and Sam were great people to work with. They are two wonderful people. With a 90% success rate, it was a very successful camp. Glad to have been a part of it!!” Ron.

Ron Eichman

“My daughter in-law was the coordinator for the former iCan Shine back when it was called ‘Lose the Training Wheels’ when they first came to the Lehigh Valley about 15 years ago. At the time, the bike technician appreciated my help putting the ‘bike training handles’ on the rider’s personal bikes. I did that the next year as well.

When the program came back to the Lehigh Valley, to my Alma mater, Easton HS, I decided to volunteer again, to assist the technician. It has been heartwarming to watch the excitement and satisfaction of success on the faces of the riders.

I’m thankful to be able to assist in a wonderful program.”

Sarah

“This camp is truly amazing, One boy I worked with was a fast learner but still wanted me to run next to him for company even though I couldn’t keep up with him. On the last day after executing a beautiful stop, he looked up at his dad sitting in the bleachers and whispered to me “Do you think he’s proud of me?”, I almost broke down crying right there, I responded with “I think he is so proud of you,” He then went a gave his dad the biggest hug. Now I never asked if the boy’s dad was proud of him, even though by the looks of his smile I’d say he was, but I can say that I was insanely proud of not only the boy but all the kids of getting out there and riding a bike. I never realized how important it was to ride a bike. These kids can go on family bike rides, ride to their friends houses, ride to the store, etc. This one week camp just changed their entire lives.”

Parent/Volunteer – Salt Lake City, UT

“This program has been a blessing in so many lives. Especially for my son who was a rider 3 years ago. After 5 years of trying to learn to ride a bike, we found this program. It was a literal miracle to see him go from scared, clumsy, unsure, and doubtful to riding outside on his brand new bike IN ONLY 5 DAYS! Since then, my husband and I have volunteered at the week you are in SLC. It is still so rewarding because now I get to see the joy, amazement and gratitude I felt, on other parents faces! Thank you for changing lives!”

Volunteer – Boulder, CO

“It was one of the most emotionally rewarding volunteer project I have ever done! To see the kids’ confidence on a bike change from being somewhat scared or intimidated to elation and pride in riding their bike was priceless for me. I will always remember the kids’ smiles and interaction with their parent or sibling as they were learning to ride a bike.”

Volunteer – Churchville, MD

“This past week was truly inspirational and life-altering. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to help inspire, motivate, and challenge the campers. I can’t wait until next year!”

Volunteer – Ann Arbor, MI

“It was incredible to see what a massive transformation the kids could make in such a short time. Every minute was amazing and completely worth it.”

Volunteer – Wichita, KS

“The week I volunteered for iCan Bike was hands down one of the best experiences I have ever had. I have absolutely fallen in love with this amazing organization.”

Volunteer – East Lyme, CT

“I have never seen a program develop such amazing results in such a short period of time. The team was extraordinary and the relationships that were built will never be forgotten.”

Volunteer – Alpharetta, GA

“I love volunteering with iCan Bike. The operations are extremely well-run, the staff is superior. The level of care and respect shown to the riders, parents and volunteers is second to none.”

Hosts
Alicia

“I just wanted to thank you on behalf of Trisomy 21 Foundation of NNY for an incredible iCan Bike camp. From the start, all my many questions were answered quickly and guidance was available throughout the planning process. Kevin and Kelli were amazing! We had riders ranging from age 8 to 59 and their expertise and professionalism made each rider feel accomplished and special. The feedback from our community has been overwhelming. We had volunteers tell us that the week has changed them for the better, parents tell us about the joy of seeing their children ride, spectators tell us they had to see it to believe it. Thank you iCan Bike for this program which really does change the lives of every person involved.”

Charlotte NC

“We are incredibly satisfied, your staff are amazing and the support from Shine is largely why we are so successful here in Charlotte.”

Middletown OH

“This is a fabulous camp and have been very happy with all areas of your service.”

Topeka KS

“This was the 6th year for Easter Seals Capper Foundation to host, my first year being here and helping. The event was organized, the iCan Shine staff were knowledgeable and helpful. I can’t think of anything that needs improvement.”

Spokane WA

“I am thrilled and hear nothing but great things from parents, sponsors and riders themselves. We LOVE it!”

San Antonio TX

“Things are going great. We love the partnership with iCan Shine. Thank you.”

Richardson TX

“You all are doing an amazing job. Parents often comment that they wish the camp was longer than a week and could go on throughout the year.”

West Hartford CT

“You all are doing an amazing job. Parents often comment that they wish the camp was longer than a week and could go on throughout the year.”

Sarnia ON

“You are a well oiled machine.”

Cambridge ON

“We love your program!!! Our families love the program and the smiles on the riders face say the exact same thing!”

Parents
Jordan White

“My son had just turned 11 years old shortly before camp began. He was extremely nervous about riding a bike since he had a spill on his bike when he was 7 years old. I couldn’t get him near a bike let alone to try and ride one.

It had been a rough year and his confidence was suffering. All of that changed with iCan Bike camp! I was skeptical and rather pessimistic that a short camp could have much effect on his ability to ride a bike, but thankfully I was dead wrong!

From start to finish this program was nothing short of amazing and as a single mom a miracle! Not only does my newly minted middle schooler ride his bike with a big smile on his face, but he has a bike and helmet that are specifically fitted to him that I wouldn’t be able to afford otherwise. Thank you Levi for your brotherly love to all riders and the bicycle/helmet donated in your name as it will be used for many years to come.

The staff, supervisor, and volunteers were wonderful and cheered my son along the way. I was blessed to be able to see his last day of camp and when he started riding his bike I don’t think I’ve felt so proud. My heart soared and melted all at once. It was a moment I thought would never happen and now everytime I see him riding his bike I am just forever thankful for all of those involved in his success!!! Thank you so much!!!!”

Kristal

“My daughter always showed an interest in riding a bike but struggled to succeed. After completing this program, she is riding her bike with little assistance and she is actually enjoying herself outside. I love the confidence she has gained in accomplishing this goal!”

Jennifer Tweedie

“I call all the iCanShine staff miracle workers. My 11 year old daughter who has autism participated as a camper and I participated as a volunteer. Additionally, I am a physical therapist.The children participating as campers had a variety of developmental challenges including cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. I never expected that most of them would achieve independent cycling outside within 5 days. The progression of skills with the roller wheels and tandem cycling is absolute genius. My daughter now can ride with myself and her brothers. We have even ridden on the carriage paths in our home state National Park – Acadia. Being able to ride a bike has given her confidence and pride. Thank you SO much!”

Margaret Gregory for Shawn Gregory

“We biked as a family for years. At first little Shawn rode in the baby basket, then on the back of our tandem where he would just prop his feet up on the bar and hang onto the handle bars. In high school we got him an adult tricycle. Many in our family tried to help him pedal, balance, and manage turns to no avail. I gave up. BUT THEN the ICAN BIKE CAMP advertisement showed up on Facebook. What an amazing, life-changing experience for him! I can not say THANK YOU enough!”

Agostino Menna

“We learned about the bike camp from the John McGivney Centre in Windsor. They directed us to the Kind Minds Organization located in Windsor as well who was sponsoring an ICan Bike camp. My 8 year old grandson who has Cerebral Palsy, loves biking and we enjoy many rides in the summer. He’s always used a small two wheeler with training wheels. We entered the camp the first day and met founders Chris and Jess from Kind Minds along with Shaun and Julie as well as Sam and Megan from ICan Bike. Along with them and the numerous hard working volunteers, my grandson started off. I’ll be honest as the days went on that maybe this may not be possible for him. They, along with the young volunteers (who deserve so much credit) assured me to wait and watch. By Friday, he was riding solo even with a very weak left hand and leg. This is amazing! This program and all people who work there, sponsor and volunteer deserve thanks and praise. Keep up the miraculous work!”

Najla Poullard

“When I say this camp is a blessing in disguise I truly mean it. My son Elias went from straddling the bike and jumping right off to riding with assistance. Now we still have a long way to go but the joy on his face riding the stand-alone and the tandem bike was priceless. I highly recommend the I can shine bike program!!!!”

Maria

“Seeing my little kid having fun and starting something new. Any step is great, go ahead. Thank you for all staff and volunteers. Great program”

Angie Brock

“Lily was always afraid to attempt to ride a 2 wheel bike. Her answer always being “I might fall and hurt myself” and would shake with fear anytime we would attempt to have her try. After her iCan Bike camp, she is now riding her very own 2 wheeled bike independently. We were skeptical that she would not be able to after only one week but the camp is geared for it to be possible. She is so proud of herself and now asks us to go on bike rides all the time. We love seeing her more active and her self-esteem elevated along with her mood. We are so proud of her and so grateful to all of the staff and the volunteers at iCan Bike! Thank you so much!”

Nikki H

“This camp/program and the people..ALL AMAZING! Our son did this camp 2 years ago and it still brings tears to my eyes thinking about what an incredible experience this was for him. To this day, I marvel at how amazing he does on his bike! Thanks to this camp, he is confident and never gave up!! Will forever support and tell others about this program!!”

Maria

“My expectations were completely exceeded from the iCan Bike program. My son is typically very scared and nervous to try new things but the iCan staff and volunteers were so amazing and patient to work with him. His confidence level was so high, even after the first session, that we were amazed to see how well he was doing. He exceeded all our expectations and met his goal to ride a two-wheeled bike in 3 days! Something we had not been able to teach him on our own. I was appreciative of how considerate the staff was of the wording they used for the participants to ensure that they were encouraging them but not setting them up for failure. This program was so wonderful and we had so many happy tears watching him go through this week.”

Participants
Adaline Mills

“I want to go to bike camp again. I had so much fun!”

Lilian

Learning to ride a bike (again) after 51 years
“I rode a bike throughout high school and left it behind when I left home to go on to further schooling a long distance away. Then I got married and had children and life was busy. In the back of my mind I still remember the enjoyment I experienced from riding a bike while growing up and always wished that I would be able to ride a bike again. For almost 30 years we lived on a gravel road, so bike riding there was not practical. When we were in Europe in 2008 I tried to ride my sister’s bike and it was a fearful experience. I could not make the transition from standing on the ground to getting my foot up on the pedal. I felt I needed to learn how to ride a bike again, but who wants to run beside an elderly woman holding on to the back of her bike while she learns to ride a bike? The opportunity to learn never seemed to present itself.

Fast forward. On Saturday, May 30, 2015 there was an article in our paper the Ames Tribune (Iowa) about an iCan Bike Camp for people with disabilities to learn to ride bikes. Immediately I wondered if I would be able to join. There were only 13 registered campers at the time with a possibility of 40. The worst that could happen to me was they could refuse and say it was only for those with disabilities. I called first thing on Monday morning and was allowed to join the campers as number 14. I had to look past it that I was a 68 year old woman learning to ride next to young children. But I wanted to (re)learn so badly to ride a bike.

The camp itself was such a good experience, the staff were friendly and so helpful and were right beside me the whole time, except of course on the last day. Plus the bikes were equipped with a roller for the back wheel and also a long handle so the staff could hold onto the bike as needed. As the days went by my confidence returned, I even learned how to get my foot up on the pedal and get going. The only thing I did not really enjoy was the tandem bike, the rider behind me was going too fast for me, it was actually scary. I would have preferred that we could have gone at my comfortable speed. Other than that I am so glad I was able to have this experience.

I know that this event is for people with disabilities and I think that is such a great idea and to see the kids smile as they are riding around on their own because they have mastered riding a bike. However, as an older person, I am so thankful I was able to be a part of this and hope that in the future you will reserve a spot or two for the elderly. This is such a good way for us to get some much needed exercise.”

Colleen

“When I was younger, I really wanted to ride a two wheeler.  However, my parents kept telling me I wasn’t ready.  I tried a few times but always fell.  It was really frustrating.  I felt left out because my younger brother and friends could ride a bike but I couldn’t.  I gave up on learning to ride and was convinced that I would never be able to do it.

Then last spring, my Mom came across the iCan Bike Camp online and asked me if I was interested.  I immediately said yes!  When I got to the camp for the first time, I was nervous.  I was still not sure I would be able to ride a bike.  But once I got the training bike, I felt confident.  I had an amazing week at the camp!  My volunteers, Dom and Trish were very supportive of me and always gave positive reinforcement.

By the end of the week, I could ride a two wheeler independently.  I was so excited and so was my family.  Now I enjoy riding on the bike path at the park near my house.  I would recommend iCan Bike to anyone with a disability because it helped me to not only ride a bike but also believe in myself!”

Ben

“I can do anything”

William

“This has been the important opportunity of my life!”

Liz

“I didn’t think I would ever be able to ride a bike and I told my parents that the whole trip from Florida to Virginia. Every time I tried to ride my bike without training wheels I would fall. It is really frustrating when all your friends and younger cousins can ride a two wheel bike and you can’t.

When we got to bike camp on Monday morning, everyone was very nice and wanted to help me learn how to ride a bike. I loved Ms. Lisa, Ms. Heidi and my volunteer. I was able to ride the first bike and it was really easy and fun and I wasn’t scared after a while. When I left camp the first day, I was really excited! I was really going to learn how to ride a two-wheel bike!

The second day was great too and I was starting to feel very confident. The third day was a lot harder but I still did it. The fourth day I got too tense and fell down but Ms. Heidi ran behind me for the rest of the day and I felt better when I left. The last day was the BEST day! I rode my two-wheel bike all over the gym, all by myself! It was the most amazing feeling! I was so proud of myself and so were my parents and sister and all the volunteers and instructors.

We drove all the way back to Florida the next day and I rode my bike all by myself for my whole family to watch. Everyone cheered and said great job. I try and ride my bike everyday for at least 20 minutes and sometimes my parents take me and my sister to a bike trail near our house. The last time we went, I rode for 5 miles straight, with only a couple of stops and I was ahead of my entire family the whole time!

I hope one day that I can compete in a bike race or triathalon. I’ve learned that you can do anything you want if you try hard enough and you believe in yourself.”

Seth

The Time I Learned How to Ride a Bike’

“One morning I got up feeling something I never felt. I felt confident. It was August, 2011. My mom and I got in her car and drove to Notre Dame College. I was going to learn to ride a… bike. A group called Lose the Training Wheels came to Cleveland. It was a 5-day camp to teach kids to ride a bike. My helper was Victoria and she had a red hat and shorts. The director names were Nikki and Matt. When I got on the bike I went slow and I was scared. I said to myself, “I can do this just take it easy”. The next day the Fox 8 news team came and interviewed me. They put a microphone on my shirt. I said, “I’m proud!”. So they video taped me on my bike but just then I bumped into another boy and he got mad at me. I said I was sorry and he forgave me.
Then next it was the last day. Everyone was sad to say goodbye. So it was the day I have been waiting for all my life. So I got on the bike and zoomed down the sidewalk. Everyone started to cheer me on. Then I stopped and rode back and then everyone clapped! I felt like crying because I was so happy! Then they had an award ceremony. They gave out trophies. They called my name. I came up to get it and it said, “LTTW Cleveland Seth Gelwasser” and I got a Mitchell’s gift card. Now I know how to ride a bike!!!!!!!!!! Thanks to Lose the Training Wheels. That was a perfect ending of a perfect day. I learned practice makes perfect!”

Nathaniel

“I’d like to thank you for helping me ride a bike. I didn’t think I could ride one before. Give the others my thanks.”

Jacob

“It’s not the same anymore!”

Kyle

“For the past eight years, my parents have been trying to get me to ride a bike. It had gotten to the point where I had given up and didn’t care to ride one anymore. But now that I can, I realize how much fun it is. Thank you for helping me out”

Volunteers
Ron Eichman

“iCan Bike Lehigh Valley, PA.

To the Dietrich family, thank for the opportunity to assist with the rider’s personal bikes. Amanda and Sam were great people to work with. They are two wonderful people. With a 90% success rate, it was a very successful camp. Glad to have been a part of it!!” Ron.

Ron Eichman

“My daughter in-law was the coordinator for the former iCan Shine back when it was called ‘Lose the Training Wheels’ when they first came to the Lehigh Valley about 15 years ago. At the time, the bike technician appreciated my help putting the ‘bike training handles’ on the rider’s personal bikes. I did that the next year as well.

When the program came back to the Lehigh Valley, to my Alma mater, Easton HS, I decided to volunteer again, to assist the technician. It has been heartwarming to watch the excitement and satisfaction of success on the faces of the riders.

I’m thankful to be able to assist in a wonderful program.”

Sarah

“This camp is truly amazing, One boy I worked with was a fast learner but still wanted me to run next to him for company even though I couldn’t keep up with him. On the last day after executing a beautiful stop, he looked up at his dad sitting in the bleachers and whispered to me “Do you think he’s proud of me?”, I almost broke down crying right there, I responded with “I think he is so proud of you,” He then went a gave his dad the biggest hug. Now I never asked if the boy’s dad was proud of him, even though by the looks of his smile I’d say he was, but I can say that I was insanely proud of not only the boy but all the kids of getting out there and riding a bike. I never realized how important it was to ride a bike. These kids can go on family bike rides, ride to their friends houses, ride to the store, etc. This one week camp just changed their entire lives.”

Parent/Volunteer – Salt Lake City, UT

“This program has been a blessing in so many lives. Especially for my son who was a rider 3 years ago. After 5 years of trying to learn to ride a bike, we found this program. It was a literal miracle to see him go from scared, clumsy, unsure, and doubtful to riding outside on his brand new bike IN ONLY 5 DAYS! Since then, my husband and I have volunteered at the week you are in SLC. It is still so rewarding because now I get to see the joy, amazement and gratitude I felt, on other parents faces! Thank you for changing lives!”

Volunteer – Boulder, CO

“It was one of the most emotionally rewarding volunteer project I have ever done! To see the kids’ confidence on a bike change from being somewhat scared or intimidated to elation and pride in riding their bike was priceless for me. I will always remember the kids’ smiles and interaction with their parent or sibling as they were learning to ride a bike.”

Volunteer – Churchville, MD

“This past week was truly inspirational and life-altering. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to help inspire, motivate, and challenge the campers. I can’t wait until next year!”

Volunteer – Ann Arbor, MI

“It was incredible to see what a massive transformation the kids could make in such a short time. Every minute was amazing and completely worth it.”

Volunteer – Wichita, KS

“The week I volunteered for iCan Bike was hands down one of the best experiences I have ever had. I have absolutely fallen in love with this amazing organization.”

Volunteer – East Lyme, CT

“I have never seen a program develop such amazing results in such a short period of time. The team was extraordinary and the relationships that were built will never be forgotten.”

Volunteer – Alpharetta, GA

“I love volunteering with iCan Bike. The operations are extremely well-run, the staff is superior. The level of care and respect shown to the riders, parents and volunteers is second to none.”