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Thanks to Mitten Fitness, the Peer-to-Peer program at DHS has a new bike
By: Lana Burns & Lily Burns
“I am super excited [about the new bike], because when I go to Mackinac Island, I ride bikes there too!” Junior Maddy McGuire expressed as she shared her enthusiasm about the new addition. Maddy and the Peer-to-Peer program welcomed the remarkable addition to their community on September 28th – a custom-built two-person bike, designed to provide students with disabilities a fun and engaging means of mobility.
This initiative has brought excitement and support from both students and the local community, creating opportunities for inclusivity, teamwork, and physical activity within the school environment. The two-person bike was generously donated to the DHS Peer-to-Peer program by Mitten Fitness, a local Dexter gym, as part of their commitment to supporting students with disabilities.
This innovative bike allows one student, who is part of the peer-to-peer program, to assist another student with a disability during their rides within the school’s hallways and gymnasium. As weather conditions improve, students will also have the opportunity to take their rides outdoors.
Mitten Fitness owner Colby Buswell shared the inspiring story of how the bike donation came to be. In March, the gym initiated a fundraiser, both within their facility and via their social media channels. Within a month, the gym had raised nearly $2,000.
The two-person bike, custom-built by Worksman Cycles, cost $2,300 in total ($1,900 for manufacturing and an additional $400 for shipping).
The significance of the new two-person bike extends far beyond mere transportation. It serves as a tool to empower students with disabilities by providing them with the opportunity to actively participate in physical activities and form strong connections with their peers.
“The adaptability for any disability is nice because you can help them easily do something fun every day,” noted senior peer student Cole Watkins, emphasizing the bike’s inclusive design and its potential to enhance the daily lives of students with disabilities.
Furthermore, the addition of this innovative bike promotes a sense of community and teamwork at Dexter High School.
“I’m excited for the relationships that are going to be built with them working together as a team and really the community that is all bringing them together,” Paraprofessional Andrea Tyler said.
The DHS Peer-to-Peer program’s new two-person bike represents a testament to the power of community collaboration and inclusivity. It not only enables students with disabilities to experience the joy of cycling but also strengthens the bonds that connect the entire school community.
With the support of Mitten Fitness and the enthusiasm of Dexter High School’s students and staff, this initiative embodies the spirit of compassion and togetherness that defines the Dexter community.
