On Saturday, August 26, hundreds of cyclists and volunteers will gather at Heartspring’s 14th Annual PedalFest bike ride to support local children with special needs. All rides begin on the Heartspring campus and take cyclists through the city and the surrounding areas. This year, the event offers a number of routes including a 100K, 50K, 25K, 5K Family Ride and new this year, a 60K Gravel Ride.
The event benefits Heartspring’s Pediatric Services program. Pediatric Services offers a wide variety of therapies including occupational, physical and speech therapies as well as audiology services to more than 850 local children ages birth to 21. Not all insurance companies consistently cover the therapy costs needs for these children, potentially making it difficult for their families to keep up financially. The proceeds from PedalFest are used to offer free and reduced-fee therapies, allowing the children access to therapies they, otherwise, would not be able to receive. Last year, PedalFest raised more than $85,000 for these children.
“We are so excited for this opportunity to have some fun and make an impact on the lives of children with special needs and their families,” Hannah Hrencher, Heartspring special events coordinator, said. “Together we are helping children meet milestones and make strides on their path to greater independence.”
The first ride starts at 6:00 a.m. with other rides starting throughout the morning. The ride is fully supported with Support and Gear (SAG) Stops on every route for cyclists to rest, rehydrate and replenish. After the ride, participants are invited to join the Post-Ride Celebration on Heartspring’s campus to enjoy lunch, the beer garden, music and family activities. For more information go to pedalfest.org.
Heartspring creates hope and opportunity that changes the lives of children with special needs and their families. The residential school, outpatient pediatric services and Autism Services programs aim to help children of all ages succeed by gaining the skills necessary for a more independent lifestyle. More information at www.heartspring.org
