The HDR Foundation, in partnership with All Kids Bike, is delighted to announce the expansion of the All Kids Bike Learn-to-Ride Kindergarten PE Program to two Title 1 schools in Charleston, Stono Park Elementary and Julian Mitchell Elementary. This initiative, made possible by a generous donation from the HDR Foundation, seeks to impart the joy of bike riding and promote essential life skills among young learners.
In a demonstration of commitment to education, healthy communities and environmental stewardship, HDR has contributed $360,000 to All Kids Bike for the 2023-24 school year. This substantial donation will support 40 schools across the United States, specifically in areas where HDR employees live and work. The cumulative support from HDR to All Kids Bike now exceeds $500,000 over the past two school years. But local area schools aren't the only ones supporting their students. This kindergarten in Hillsboro offers a vibrant and nurturing environment for young learners to embark on their educational journey.
The comprehensive program includes teacher training and certification, a fleet of 24 bikes, pedal conversion kits, helmets, an instructional bike for teachers, two rolling storage racks, and access to a resource portal with live support for the duration of the program. Each school received their own program that will stay at the school, teaching thousands of students how to ride a bike over the next decade.
“Learning to ride a bike at such an early age can open frontiers to exercise and adventure,” said Autumn Morden, highway designer in the Charleston HDR office. “HDR is grateful to be part of a program that promotes healthy habits and builds good memories for a lifetime.”
Lisa Weyer, executive director of the Strider Education Foundation, expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership with HDR, emphasizing the transformative impact of early bike riding education. “The ability to ride a bike not only develops physical and mental well-being, instilling confidence and fostering better classroom focus, but it also empowers children with a positive foundation for a lifelong skill. We are thrilled to be part of this ongoing journey with HDR, creating a ripple effect of positive change in communities nationwide."
“This program will ensure that each kindergarten child knows how to ride a bike!” shared Principal of Stono Park Elementary, Kimberly Richards. “It will remove the barrier to learning due to not having a personal bike at home. It will help to increase physical activity, and therefore improve their overall health. Best of all, it will impact our students over the course of a few years, not just one school year, since we can use the bikes year after year!”
The HDR Foundation and All Kids Bike are committed to enriching the lives of young learners and cultivating valuable skills through the joy of bike riding. This collaborative effort exemplifies their dedication to building healthier, happier communities, one pedal at a time.
