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Press Release

For Immediate Release

2016/08/23

PedalFest supporters fundraise more than $85,000

WICHITA, Kan.--Heartspring’s 13th Annual PedalFest Bike Ride raised more than $85,000 this year. Riders, volunteers and community sponsors worked together to raise the funds for the Heartspring Pediatric Services Financial Assistance Fund.

“It was amazing to see all of the people out at Heartspring to support the children we serve. Every dollar, person and pedal matters when it comes to raising money for children with special needs. Many riders have been with us since the first year in 2004. These participants give children the chance to walk, talk or speak for the first time, and we appreciate everything they do for the organization,” said Hannah Henning, special events coordinator.

Pediatric Services offers a wide variety of therapies including occupational, physical and speech therapies as well as audiology services and Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) to more than 850 local children ages birth to 21. Many children with special needs benefit from more than one type of therapy, multiple times per week. However, not all insurance companies consistently cover the therapy costs needs for these children, potentially making it difficult for their families to keep up financially. To combat the financial difficulties, the proceeds from PedalFest are used to offer free and reduced-fee therapies, allowing the children access to therapies they, otherwise, would not be able to receive. In FY16, Heartspring Pediatric Services was able to award more than $618,000 in financial aid to more than 474 children.

The event featured a 100K, 50K, 25K distance ride and a 5K family ride. Each route was fully supported with SAG (Supply and Gear) stops, and after the ride participants enjoyed the Post-Ride Celebration, hosted by KWCH 12 News Anchor Jenn Bates. The festivities included a complimentary lunch, beer garden, music courtesy of DJ Carbon and family activities.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heartspring is a worldwide center for children with special needs. The residential school, outpatient pediatric services, and autism services programs aim to help children of all ages succeed by gaining the skills necessary for a more independent lifestyle. More information at www.heartspring.org.