North Coast Cycling Association
Supports Kids Therapy
Children participating in kids’ therapy at NorthLakes Community Clinic will soon have updated safety equipment thanks to a donation of bicycle helmets from the North Coast Cycling Association (NCCA).
The helmets will support NorthLakes’ pediatric occupational and physical therapy programs in Rice Lake and Ashland, where biking is used as part of therapy to help children improve balance, coordination, strength, and confidence. Therapists incorporate riding into sessions as a fun and functional way to build skills that translate into other everyday activities and family recreation.
The connection began through a community conversation between local volunteers who share a passion for getting kids active outdoors. When NorthLakes therapists identified a need to update their helmet supply, NCCA stepped forward to help.
“We’re so grateful to the North Coast Cycling Association for this partnership,” said Ana Tochterman of NorthLakes Community Clinic. “Biking is a powerful therapeutic tool for many of the children we work with. It helps build balance, coordination, and strength, but just as importantly, it gives kids confidence and something they can enjoy with their families outside of therapy.”
North Coast Cycling Association is a nonprofit organization that promotes bicycling in Bayfield and Ashland counties and works with communities to expand safe riding opportunities throughout the Chequamegon Bay region. NCCA President Charmaine Swan said supporting the therapy program reflects the organization’s broader mission of encouraging people of all ages and abilities to experience the benefits of biking.
“At the North Coast Cycling Association, our mission is simple: to encourage everyone to ride bikes,” Swan said. “When we heard how NorthLakes uses biking as part of therapy for kids, it felt like a perfect fit. We’re excited to help provide helmets so more children can safely experience the joy and freedom of riding.”
The collaboration also highlights the growing momentum around cycling opportunities in the region, including efforts to develop a community bike skills park in Washburn designed for riders of all ages and skill levels.
For NorthLakes therapists, the new helmets mean more children can participate safely in a therapy activity that blends exercise, play, and real-world skill building.
“This is a wonderful example of how community partnerships can directly benefit local kids,” Tochterman added. “When organizations work together like this, we can help our communities to thrive.”
Photo: Pediatric Physical Therapist Samantha Barg, PT, works with a patient and therapy bike at NorthLakes Community Clinic in Rice Lake with helmets donated by North Coast Cycling Association.
