Many organizations in Bulloch County work hard to meet the basic needs of the community — food, clothing, shelter. But the organization named Best Local Hero by voters in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards stands out for meeting a different kind of need: mobility.

Statesboro AMBUCS, a local chapter of the national nonprofit American Business Clubs, focuses on providing adaptive tricycles called Amtrykes to children and adults who are unable to ride traditional bikes due to physical or developmental challenges. These customized, three-wheeled bikes are designed to increase independence, mobility and joy — at no cost to the families who receive them.

“In our speech, physical and occupational therapy clinic, The Therapy Spot, we often identify children who could benefit from having an Amtryke,” said Caroline Bowman, M.Ed., CCC-SLP/COM, co-owner of the clinic and a volunteer with Statesboro AMBUCS. “Our AMBUCS chapter evaluates the needs of each child or adult and designs a custom Amtryke to meet their individual needs.”

Though AMBUCS was founded nationally in 1922, the Statesboro chapter is relatively new, formally launched just over a year ago. Prior to that, local efforts were supported for years by the Savannah chapter and the national organization. Today, the Statesboro chapter operates independently, with a growing membership of about 30 volunteers. It’s one of just five chapters in the state of Georgia.

In addition to the Amtrykes, AMBUCS also provides scholarships for students who are entering graduate programs for speech, physical and occupational therapy, and its members participate in a variety of special community projects. Locally, these projects include the fully inclusive playground currently under construction at the Statesboro Family YMCA.

Unlike a typical bike, Amtrykes are custom built to meet the unique needs of the rider. Each one is adapted with special seating, posture supports, steering and braking options, and foot or hand propulsion — or both.

“There are also decisions about what kind of handlebars are needed, depending on the individual’s ability to grip or steer, and whether a rear steering and brake system is needed for caregiver assistance,” Caroline said.

Prices for Amtrykes range from about $900 for small children’s models to $2,500 or more for larger adult trikes, though these costs are fully covered by AMBUCS through donations, sponsorships and community fundraising efforts.

“Imagine (your) first time riding a bike. It’s so big for a child,” Caroline said. “Or the first time being able to ride again as an adult after a brain injury or accident. There is freedom, independence, new mobility and fun.

“Increased socialization and friendship are also a part of having an Amtryke. Kids and adults enjoy riding together with friends and family. For a parent, it allows a child to experience bike riding, a monumental part of being a child, and that is so important.”

Each Amtryke recipient is honored at a personalized giveaway event, a moment that’s often just as meaningful for the volunteers as it is for the families.

Many individuals in need are identified by professionals including speech, occupational and physical therapists, who volunteer their time to conduct free Amtryke evaluations. Families may also request evaluations directly. The Statesboro AMBUCS team works closely with schools, healthcare providers and local organizations to reach those who would benefit most.

Then, “our local … fire department partners with Statesboro AMBUCS to assemble the Amtrykes,” Caroline said. “We also do bike giveaways there from time to time, which adds to the fun.”

Support from the community has played a key role in helping AMBUCS fulfill its mission over the years. Several Amtrykes have been sponsored by local businesses, civic clubs like Rotary, and private donors. Some Bulloch County special education classrooms even have shared Amtrykes available for students to use.

For the Statesboro chapter, visibility and awareness about its mission remain a priority, and its members are thankful that this award will help get the word out.  

“We are hopeful that more members of our community will get behind this mission and join Statesboro AMBUCS,” Caroline said.

One of the chapter’s most creative and newest outreach efforts is Stars for Trykes, a fundraiser and community talent show that pairs local performers with Georgia Southern University athletes from Athletes in Action. The event includes celebrity judges, a people’s choice vote, a silent auction and sponsorship opportunities — all aimed at raising funds to help put more Amtrykes in the hands of those who need them.