Staff Electric Shifts Giving into High Gear with Donating Helmets to iCan Bike Program

In summer 2021, Staff Electric sponsored 101 helmets for the Autism Society’s iCan Bike event through the iCan Shine program. This gift was given in honor of Staff Electric’s 101st anniversary in business.

“Learning to ride a bike is something most of us take for granted,” says Lisa Haasch, Senior Marketing Coordinator for the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin. “The ability to ride a bike can mean greater independence, improved health, and stronger relationships for individuals with disabilities.”

Hosted by the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin, the iCan Shine Bike Camp is a week-long event that teaches riders with a variety of disabilities to ride a two-wheel bike confidently on their own. This is accomplished using a fleet of specialized bicycles owned by iCan Shine. Over the course of the five-day camp, the adapted bikes are adjusted to gradually introduce more instability in an effort to challenge riders at their own individual pace. Throughout the entire process, the riders and their volunteers grow together through the smiles and tears that these challenges bring. After many hours of laughter and learning, the week concludes with a touching and inspiring award ceremony.

Staff Electric marketing intern, Hannah Murray, got to witness the excitement firsthand. “Getting the opportunity to donate 101 helmets to the iCan Bike program run by the Autism Society is such an incredible honor to be a part of,” says Hannah. “What was even more rewarding for me personally was being able to actually attend one of the training sessions held this summer. I was inspired by all the different volunteers willing to dedicate their time to helping these kids master riding their bikes, something that is statistically unlikely to happen without all of the resources provided by the program.”

Staff Electric Director of Human Resources, John Murray, is also passionate about this organization. “As someone who has a passion and love for bike riding,” he shares, “I believe that every kid, no matter the circumstances, should get the opportunity to learn how. The iCan Bike program helps kids with disabilities become independent riders, an activity that they can enjoy at any age!”

The iCanBike event occurred in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, on August 23, 2021.

“Thanks to the support of donors and businesses like Staff Electric Co., Inc., who was our generous 2021 helmet sponsor,” says Lisa, “we are able to offer this life-changing program to the communities we serve. Approximately 80% of riders can independently ride a two-wheel bike consistently by the end of the week-long camp!”
On behalf of everyone at Staff Electric, we thank the iCanBike volunteers and the Autism Society for the incredible work they do. Thank you for letting us be part of your special event.