United Way of Knox County launches All-Kids Bike program in schools
MOUNT VERNON — United Way of Knox County hosted a successful bike reveal event at the YMCA of Mount Vernon, marking the official launch of the All-Kids Bike program in seven elementary schools throughout the county.
The event celebrated the community’s efforts, with $36,000 raised in just four months to fund the program, which will teach every kindergartener how to ride a bike during their physical education (PE) classes.
“The All-Kids Bike program is about more than just teaching our children to ride a bike; it’s about giving them the confidence, independence, and joy that comes with mastering a new skill,” said Halle Krajenski, program director for United Way of Knox County. “It’s about helping them lead healthier, more active lives.
“But perhaps most importantly, this program demonstrates what’s possible when we work together as a community.”
The event unveiled bikes and training equipment and also recognized and thanked the donors for their generous contributions. Special appreciation was given to Knox Community Hospital, The Knox County Foundation, The Dean and Marsha Rinehart Family Fund, and Women United / Power of the Purse donors for their crucial support of the program.
Additionally, Knox Public Health provided 540 bike helmets for students who don’t have one at home, ensuring safe riding both at home and school. PAK United was represented by Patrolman Fike of the Mount Vernon Police Department, who delivered a bike and helmet safety lesson to the students.
PE teacher Brandon Dodrill, who will lead the program at Centerburg Elementary School, expressed his excitement.
“I’m really looking forward to helping my students learn to ride,” he said. “It’s such an important life skill, and being able to do it as part of PE class is amazing. The kids are going to love it.”
Ongoing fundraising efforts for All-Kids Bike program
In addition to celebrating the current success, the event marked the start of ongoing fundraising efforts. Katie Ellis, executive director at United Way, announced plans to expand the All-Kids Bike program to four more schools next year.
“We’re confident that with continued community effort, we can bring this program to even more schools next year, ensuring that more children benefit from this transformative experience,” she said.
Ellis emphasized that expansion provides hundreds of additional students with access to bike education, promoting physical activity, safety awareness, and lifelong healthy habits. The ongoing fundraising campaign will be crucial in securing the resources needed to make this vision a reality, and the community’s ongoing generosity will play a key role in its success.
With the All-Kids Bike program now officially underway, Knox County kindergarteners will soon begin learning how to ride safely and confidently as part of their school experience. For more information about the All-Kids Bike program, please visit www.allkidsbike.org.
