MEDICINE HAT, AB – A new volunteer-run program is aiming to help seniors and people with mobility challenges get outside.
Cycling Without Age takes participants around Medicine Hat on Tri-shaws.
This program is currently operating in 80 countries around the world.
Co-Founder Julie Lacasse says this initiative started as a dream two years ago, but a partnership with Bike Medicine Hat and hard work from volunteers made it a reality.
“We have some cycling without age chapters in Canada, but southern Alberta didn’t have any, so we were very excited to apply. We connected with bike Medicine Hat, and under their umbrella we started our own cycling without age chapter,” said Lacasse.
She believes this program is important for the mental health of the senior population.
Those who have participated in this program in other parts of the world describe its positive impact on their lives.
“It helps them sleep better, it helps their morale, decrease depression, it has so many benefits,” stated Lacasse.
There are currently 15 tri-shaw drivers volunteering for the program.
Hatters can expect to see these bikes on the paths starting at the end of May.
Those who are interested in volunteering can email CWAmedhat@gmail.com.
