RAPID CITY, S.D. (BRAIN) — South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard recently recognized Strider Sports Int'l., Inc., with the state's Distinguished Service Award for its contributions to the rehabilitation and employment of South Dakotans with disabilities.
Since its inception in 2007, Strider Sports International Inc. has donated more than $600,000, which includes cash and bikes, to organizations that benefit children and adults, including individuals with disabilities. The Strider Bike line-up includes the 12-inch model for younger riders and the 16-inch and 20-inch models, developed in the last couple of years for older children and adults with balance and coordination challenges, such as Down syndrome and autism. Research in 2015 showed that riding a Strider Bike helped children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
"Strider Sports Int'l has done amazing things for our program at Rapid City Central High School," said Amy Heuston, a special education teacher who submitted a letter of reference for the award application. "They not only have given us thousands of dollars in bikes and helmets, but have given their time and love to our students with severe/profound disabilities. Strider Bikes have made enormous impacts with many of our students, and in many skill areas."
