iCan Bike Camp, a program to teach people with disabilities how to ride a bike, is rolling back into Fulton.
Sign-ups are open now for the annual program, though space is more limited than usual due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Last year's camp had to be canceled for the same reason.
"We only have room for 30 riders - six per session," said Nancy Hanson, who hosts the program in Fulton each year. "It's filling up pretty quick."
This year, iCan Bike will take place June 14-18 at 54 Country, 400 Gaylord Drive in Fulton.
Participants should be at least 8 years old - there's no upper age limit - and face some barrier to learning to ride. That could be anything from anxiety to poor motor skills to a physical or developmental disability. The weight limit is 220 pounds. Riders must have at least a 20-inch inseam and must be able to wear a helmet, walk and sidestep, and attend all five days of camp. There are five sessions per day.
Registration costs $150, but that fee can be waived or reduced for families who can't afford it.
iCan Bike makes use of assistive technology to help participants get the feel for riding a bike, such as weighted rear wheels and stabilizing handles. Energetic volunteers run alongside the riders or cheer from the sidelines.
"I'm looking for volunteers to help with camp and help plan for camp," Hanson said.
In 2020, Hanson organized weekly bike-riding practice during the summer as a physical distancing-friendly alternative to the camp. Though those sessions didn't involve the special iCan Bike equipment or name, they helped many children lose their training wheels.
"We taught about 65 kids how to ride a bike this summer," she said. "It was so much fun - so much joy."
She plans to bring those sessions back, too. Participation is free.
For more information, to register or to volunteer, visit facebook.com/icanbikefulton or contact Hanson at [email protected] or 573-826-0223.