On Saturday, November 23, Variety St. Louis held its annual Bikes for Kids event, distributing over 230 bicycles to local children and teens with special needs. The event was made possible thanks to the dedication of more than 100 community volunteers, whose teamwork and enthusiasm brought it to life.

Bike build teams assembled over 200 standard, two-wheeled bikes, creating a flurry of activity and excitement. Later that morning, families arrived to pick up their bikes, filling the atmosphere with smiles, cheers, and pure joy!

One of the most remarkable aspects of Bikes for Kids is the 28 children who received their final fitting for their adapted therapeutic bikes. These custom-made bikes are uniquely built to meet each rider’s specific needs, featuring modifications such as hand pedals, caregiver steering mechanisms, higher seat backs, and more.

Whether standard or therapeutic, these bicycles have a profound impact on each child’s life. They empower Variety Kids to be more mobile, build strength, independently explore, and connect with family, friends, and neighbors. Most importantly, these bikes make it possible for Variety Kids to just be kids.

“There are not very many activities that Lillie can do without assistance. This bike has allowed Lillie access to the outdoors in a safe, and fun way that keeps her involved with her family, and physically active. She loves knowing she is included and able to do the things her brother can do,” shares mom Amber.