[Salem, OR, November 20, 2024]: The HDR Foundation, in partnership with All Kids Bike, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is pleased to announce the launch of the All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program to Bush Elementary School, a Title 1 school in Salem, Oregon. 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. Bush Elementary celebrated the introduction of the program at a kickoff event with Governor Kotek and HDR representatives.
In a demonstration of commitment to education, healthy communities and environmental stewardship, HDR Foundation has contributed $333,000 to All Kids Bike for the 2024-25 school year. This substantial donation will support 37 schools across the United States, specifically in areas where HDR employees live and work. The cumulative support from the HDR Foundation to All Kids Bike now exceeds $800,000 over the past three years gifting All Kids Bike programs to over 100 elementary schools nationwide.
All Kids Bike is a comprehensive program including teacher training and certification, complete curriculum with lesson plans, games and activities, a fleet of 24 Strider balance-to-pedal bikes, pedal conversion kits, fully adjustable student helmets, an instructor bike with pedal conversion kit and helmet, two rolling storage racks, and access to a resource portal with live support for the life of the program.
“Thank you to All Kids Bike for including me in this delightful event and giving me the opportunity to talk with kiddos about the joy of riding a bike,” Governor Kotek said. “Teaching young kids how to ride is not just about a fun thing to do and a great way to get some exercise, but it is gifting them a life-skill that can take them far for the rest of their lives. It’s right in the name: all kids deserve the joy and health benefits of biking.”
“Learning to ride a bike at such an early age can open frontiers to adventure and help establish a foundation for a healthy lifestyle,” said HDR’s Oregon Area Manager, Tracy Ellwein. “The opportunity to partner with All Kids Bike aligns with the career passions and expertise of HDR employees – working each day to build safe, strong, connected and more sustainable communities.”
Lisa Weyer, executive director of the Strider Education Foundation, expressed appreciation for the partnership with the HDR Foundation, emphasizing the transformative impact of early bike riding education. “Learning to ride a bike empowers children with a positive foundation for a lifelong skill. Bike riding develops physical and mental well-being, instills confidence and fosters better classroom focus.” At Bush Elementary, this program will positively impact approximately 50 kindergarten students each year by teaching them how to ride a bike in kindergarten PE class. With a lifespan of 7-10 years for the equipment, it is estimated that up to 500 students will benefit from this initiative over the next decade.
“We are beyond grateful to HDR for their support in bringing the All Kids Bike Program to Bush Elementary School. This program goes far beyond just learning to ride—it’s about teaching confidence, independence, and the importance of staying active,” stated Bush Elementary principal, Jazmin Garcia.
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.
