ST. LOUIS PARK, MN – April 12, 2024: The HDR Foundation, in partnership with All Kids Bike, is pleased to announce the expansion of the All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program to two elementary schools in St. Louis Park; Peter Hobart Elementary and Park Spanish Immersion 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.
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. Peter Hobart Elementary celebrated the introduction of the program with a kickoff event alongside HDR.
“Only one in four children will get on a bike in the course of a year, so learning this skill at such a young age is a tremendous opportunity,” said Christine Wiegert, HDR’s area manager for Minnesota and Wisconsin. “HDR is grateful to be part of a program that promotes healthy habits and builds great 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.”
At both elementary schools, this program will positively impact approximately 194 kindergarten students each year. With a lifespan of 7-10 years for the equipment, it is estimated that up to 1940 students will benefit from this initiative over the next decade.
“We are excited to collaborate with HDR to provide an opportunity to foster a child’s “JOY” through biking,” stated Peter Hobart PE teacher, Richard Keith. “This program provides a great opportunity to foster student success and brilliance!”
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.
