Variety, Harker Heights Parks & Rec, and Heart of Central Texas Independent Living (HOCTIL) Host iCanShine Bike Program for Children with Special Needs in Harker Heights in 2021.

Variety’s iCan Shine Bike Camp’s third year might have been delayed, but nothing can stop us from offering this special bike camp to local children this year. We invite you to see firsthand how instructors from iCan Bike use a fleet of adaptive bicycles and a specialized instructional program to teach individuals with disabilities how to ride a bike – ultimately, without assistance or support!

Sadly, 80 to 90% of children with disabilities, like autism or Down Syndrome, never learn to ride a traditional two-wheeled bicycle. Variety, the Children’s Charity of Texas is changing that for kids in the Bell County area. This innovative and collaborative program teaches children with special needs to do just that.

“At Variety, we understand that there is a higher rate of obesity related illnesses or conditions in children living with disabilities,” said Variety of Texas’ President & Executive Director, Stacy Bruce. “We believe that if we can help a child get moving, we can help that child live a healthier life.”

Riders attend one 75-minute session each day for five consecutive days where they learn to ride while accompanied and encouraged by volunteer "spotters." Over the course of the week, the bike's stability is adjusted to challenge riders' balance as they gradually discover the skill and joy of riding. Historically, at least 80% of participants can ride a two-wheel bicycle independently by the end of camp. And 100% of riders gain confidence and motivation to ride a bike.

“I vividly remember the sense of freedom and independence I felt when I first learned to ride a bike,” said Bruce. “And now, I better understand and appreciate the social and emotional benefits that come from being able to ride next to family and friends. Variety’s annual iCan Bike camp is truly life-changing for Variety kids.”

Collaborating partners include Harker Heights Parks & Recreation and the Heart of Central Texas Independent Living Center (HOCTIL). “Harker Heights Parks and Recreation is excited to bring back programming for children with special needs after the long delay from the pandemic,” says Jeff Achee, Director of Parks and Recreation. “Our Ability Sports program is important to many area families and this is the first step toward bringing the program back to full strength.”

Due to the impact of the pandemic, Variety will not be hosting a Bike Camp in 2022. We are hopeful the iCanShine Bike Camp will return in 2023.