Five area children from Ocean and Monmouth counties with special health care needs took their place in the driver’s seat of their very own adaptive AmTryke therapeutic bikes at Children’s Specialized Hospital in Tom’s River, NJ thanks to Carmelena Cares and Ocean County American Business Clubs (AMBUCS). Designed to allow children with special needs the opportunity to 
experience the fun and freedom of riding a bike, these unique tricycles help to build strength, coordination, tone and confidence – all while having fun!
“It’s amazing to see the smiles on these kids’ faces!” said Vinny Mancini, founder of Carmelena Cares Foundation. “We know how important it is for kids to feel the freedom of riding their own bike and are thrilled to help provide that experience.”
Engineered to be hand and/or foot operated; Amtryke bikes provide therapeutic advantages for riders of all ages and a myriad of physical and developmental ability. Physical and occupational therapists note the many benefits of the custom, adaptive bikes citing improved motor skills, strength development and self-esteem. These bikes offer a form of self-mobility for those who use assistive devices such as a wheelchair, walker or crutches.
“AmTryke bikes offer a wide range of adaptations. This unique tricycle is truly a valuable addition to our therapy repertoire,” said physical therapist, Tara Roberts, PT, DPT of Children’s Specialized Hospital.
A national nonprofit organization, AMBUCS, owner of the AmTryke, has provided over 30,000 bike to riders across America. Ocean County AMBUCS, a local chapter of the national organization, is comprised of a diverse group of men and women dedicated to mobility and independence for people with disabilities.
“Most everyone remembers the initial feeling of riding a bike for the first time,” said Ali Cole of Ocean County AMBUCS. “We’re dedicated to creating mobility and independence for all people with disabilities.”
“This spring, five more kids with special health care needs will experience the exhilaration of riding down the street with their friends,” said Philip Salerno III, president and chief development officer, Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation. “We are so grateful for the amazing generosity of Ocean County AMBUCS and Carmelena Cares for helping to provide this new found independence.”
About AMBUCS
AMBUCS is a national, nonprofit organization, and owner of AmTryke, has provided over 30,000 Amtrykes to riders across America. Local AMBUCS chapters work on the grassroots level to fundraise for those with financial need, while the National Wish List provides financial assistance where no chapter is present. Riders are evaluated by physical or occupational therapist for eligibility.
About Carmelina Cares Foundation
Carmelena Cares Foundation is a non-profit organization that has been established to provide deserving disabled children, in and around Monmouth and Ocean Counties, with critical therapy, equipment, and other necessary assistance to help them recover and improve their quality of life.
Children’s Specialized Hospital, a nonprofit organization, is leading the way into a brighter future for children and adolescents facing special health challenges – from chronic illnesses and complex physical disabilities like brain and spinal cord injuries, to developmental and behavioral issues like autism and mental health. Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation supports the programs and services of the hospital and all donations go directly to helping us pioneer new specialized care and serve more children in need. To help, or for more information: visit www.childrens-specialized.org; find us on Facebook - www.facebook.com/childrensspecialized, or follow us on Twitter @ChildrensSpecNJ.