Cycling Without Age Manchester
Manchester now has a recreational rickshaw service for older adults and people with mobility issues.
Cycling Without Age Manchester has begun training cyclists “pilots” on how to load and unload their passengers, how to use the battery on the hills, finding the most enjoyable routes, and highlighting landmarks along the way.
One of their newest pilots Scott is new to Manchester and thinks Charter Oak Park is a gem.
The rickshaw, “will improve the loneliness and isolation that so many feel as a result of being widowed, never married, or passing of their local family,” Michelle Puzzo, Executive Director of UR Community Cares said. “we know many are interested in enjoying the outdoors but find it difficult due to mobility issues, so we wanted to create a way to make it easier.”
Sustainable CT matched all donations collected during their crowdfunding and Arbors of Hop Brook was their major sponsor. The program is targeting older and disabled residents in the area to come out for good conversation and exploration of the park. If the ice cream truck is available, you can grab a sweet treat after the ride.
The goal of the program is to improve the mental health of residents in the region, bring people together, and enjoy the beautiful weather. They are continuing fundraising efforts for an additional battery and shed to house the rickshaw.
They had the first mother/daughter ride, Besty has been trained as a pilot and her mom is a resident at Arbors of Hop Brook. Check out their ride: https://youtu.be/jCMAaOCtg58
To sign up for the rickshaw in September go to: https://uccct.ivolunteer.com/sep10_sep_016 or https://uccct.ivolunteer.com/sep17_sep_023.
This program is designed to offer bike riding outings to the elderly and those with disabilities in a relaxing and comfortable front seat, with a max of 2 passengers. Nursing homes, assisted livings, group homes, and individuals who would like to be passengers are eligible for a ride.
Brandy Page, the Executive Director at the Arbors of Hop Brook said the program corresponds with the center’s “active aging and wellness philosophy” that provides “an outlet for residents to increase mobility, enjoy fresh air and local scenery, and helps to build a stronger sense of community.”
For volunteers who want to become pilots, donate for ongoing expenses, or request a ride email [email protected] or call 860-430-4557.
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About Author
Michelle Puzzo, Executive & Co-Founder of UR Community Cares, practiced physical therapy for 20 years and took her knowledge about the complexity of disability and aging in place independently and created a website to better improve people’s lives. She graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1998 with her BS in Physical Therapy.
Fun Fact #1: I love to play golf.
Fun Fact #2: I just started playing Pickle Ball.