Introduction
iCan Bike is one of the programs performed in various places under the patronage of iCan Shine Inc. It is a cooperative and non-profit initiative aimed at delivering safe and active recreation for individuals with physical and mental disabilities. It allows donors and volunteers to combine their efforts in order to deliver a better environment for disabled individuals to feel welcome in. The purpose of this paper is to analyze ways in which the iCan Bike program can assist those in need.
Characteristics of the Target Population
Individuals with disabilities are a non-homogenous population group that comprises individuals of all races, genders, and age ranges. A major subgroup consists of the elderly, whose disabilities are typically motivated by old age and illnesses that come with it. Other groups include people who were disabled by trauma, hereditary ailments, and mentally challenged individuals (Rothman, 23).
They are disabled influence human health in a negative way. Aside from the loss of mobility, which typically accompanies the disability, other effects include social isolation and psychological problems such as low self-esteem and depression (Rothman, 24). Without a social network to rely upon, disabled people are often forced to deal with these problems on their own, which further exacerbates the issue. Lastly, disabled people face economic problems associated with disabilities and treatment costs.
How can iCan Bike Help?
iCan Bike is a unique program in that it addresses all four problems typically faced by disabled individuals. A weeklong training regimen would enable them to pick up biking, which would not only improve their transportation but also provide a physical stimulus to the body (“iCan Bike Hosts”). Interaction at the camp between them and the volunteers as well as each other would improve their social skills and give plenty of opportunities to make friends. The choice of location and pleasant imagery of nature and wildlife would contribute to overall mental stability and health. Lastly, iCan Bike’s donors and social sponsorship would help improve the group’s financial stability, as they would be getting these services free (“iCan Bike Hosts”).
Personal Reflection
I think iCan Bike is a very good initiative that targets a vulnerable population with a plethora of special needs and relies on the community in order to deliver the results. Participation does not require more than 75 minutes a day in order to ensure that disabled people follow their training safely and without incidents. Donations would enable children to participate in the program as well, as that money will be spent on providing the necessary equipment as well as nourishment, and all the necessities required during the stay at the Bike camp. The company makes efforts to attract corporate sponsors as well, who are likely to support philanthropic actions in order to improve their reputation and increase exposure.
Our society has grown too reliant on the government in order to take care of the disabled. Every one of us could make a difference by helping out a disabled person. Although I am considering joining as a volunteer in this initiative, I believe that providing a donation would be a quicker and easier way of helping those who are not in the immediate area or do not have spare time. This intervention should be conducted in cooperation with the local healthcare providers, as they would be able to ensure safe conduct and provide assistance in case of an emergency.
Works Cited
“iCan Bike Hosts.” iCan Shine. Web.
Rothman, Juliet. Social Work Practice Across Disability. 2nd ed., Routledge, 2018.