Since 2018, Wood Buffalo YouCanRide2 (WBUCR2) has been helping students pedal to mobility and independence. We now have a fleet of 150 specialized bikes, ensuring that every child in our division—regardless of ability—can experience the simple, transformative joy of riding a bike. By integrating these bicycles into our schools year-round and providing summer loans to families, we aren’t just lending equipment; we’re gifting freedom and a sense of belonging.
“Thanks to this program, Bria is able and excited when joining her siblings for biking fun.” – Talia Kenny
Adapted bikes are not easily accessible for families for a variety of reasons including cost, limited access to adaptive equipment to adjust regular bikes, lack of knowledgeable specialized bike mechanics as well as trained physical and occupational therapists. Schools also have a limited number of bikes available for children and limited practise time available during the day. Most children will need several bikes throughout their lifetime due to growth and changes in physical status. The benefit of this program is that as the child grows and their physical needs change the bike can change and grow with them, without extra expense to the family.
How our adapted bike program works:
The WBUCR2 program operates as a lending library allowing children to borrow bikes for the summer months as well as during the school year. Children are assessed by a trained Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist to ensure they have a bike that suits their individual needs. Families pay a small rental fee ($75.00) and borrow the bike from May – October. The bikes are then re-distributed amongst the schools and used for in school bike programming.
“So thankful for this bike which makes family bike rides possible” – Mandy Norman
Benefits of riding a bike:
Every child should experience the joy that is riding a bike! With riding a bike comes so many other benefits, increased strength and stability, cardiovascular fitness and endurance, increased communication, road safety, independence, and social interaction with peers and family.
Thank you to our sponsors!
- Canadian Tire
- Jumpstart
- Community Foundations of Canada
- Stratosphere Sports
- Fort McMurray Catholic Schools
- Fort McMurray Public Schools