Inclusion Empowers! was founded on the belief that every individual, regardless of ability, deserves the opportunity to develop practical life skills, gain independence, and experience joy within a supportive community. Its founding effort began when local residents collaborated to host a week-long adaptive cycling camp that used sequential learning and specialized instruction to help participants with disabilities master two-wheel riding. Hundreds of riders, family members, and volunteers have since participated, each contributing to a community where barriers to recreation are dismantled and the dignity and capability of every participant are affirmed. 

Bike First! Annual Cycling Camp provides an intensive, week-long camp where children, youth, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) learn to ride typical bicycles using adaptive equipment and individualized instruction. People who experience a variety of disabilities have success at our bike camps, including Down syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, visual impairments, extreme fear of falling, fine motor challenges, and developmental delays. Bike First! is the only Portland Metro program focusing specifically on this population that has historically experienced discrimination and underinvestment.

Inclusion Empowers! continues this mission by developing programs that extend beyond cycling, offering education, adaptive recreation, and family support that strengthen entire communities!