The Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce wrapped up its annual Bike Safety Program at Pence Elementary School, providing more than 80 after-school students with hands-on bicycle safety education at no cost to participants.
The program focused on teaching children safe riding habits, proper helmet use, traffic awareness, and bike handling skills through interactive lessons and obstacle course activities. Students celebrated their accomplishments at a graduation ceremony held at the end of the week, capping what organizers described as another successful year for the community initiative.
Presenting sponsors Dexter Laundry and AERON Lifestyle Technology made the event possible, with a number of additional community partners contributing throughout the week. Blank Children’s Hospital donated 50 helmets to the program, with remaining helmets set to support the Fairfield Police Department in distributing them to local children in need. The Ride Bike Shop served as materials sponsor and built the obstacle course used during the week’s activities. Cambridge Investment Research donated books to participants, Jefferson County Health Center led helmet safety activities, Freeman Kevenides Law Firm provided ongoing support for bicycle safety initiatives, and Hy-Vee donated bottled water. Bicycle giveaways at the end of the week were made possible through donations from TrafFix Devices, AERON Lifestyle Technology, and Hush & Co.
The Fairfield Police Department will continue to reinforce the program’s lessons in the community going forward, with officers planning to offer ice cream certificates to children spotted riding with helmets and distributing helmets to those seen riding without one.
Amy Vetter, Committee Co-Chair and Jefferson County Health Center representative, reflected on what keeps the program growing. “This program continues to grow because of the incredible support from our businesses, organizations, volunteers, and community partners. Helping kids build confidence while learning how to ride safely is something we are proud to invest in each year,” she said.
Kayla Stanley, Committee Co-Chair and AERON Lifestyle Technology representative, noted the program’s significance in a community built around biking. “With more than 16 miles of loop trails throughout our community, biking is an important part of life in Fairfield. Programs like this help ensure children can safely enjoy our trails, parks, and neighborhoods for years to come. We are incredibly thankful for all of the sponsors and volunteers who made this event possible,” Stanley said.
Volunteers played a key role throughout the week, including contributors from AERON, Tommy Brower from the Fairfield Arts & Convention Center and Fairfield Youth Performing Arts, Jessica Anderson from Washington State Bank, and Chamber Past Board President Joneane Parker, among numerous other community supporters.
For more information about community programs hosted by the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce, contact the Chamber office at Info@FairfieldIowa.com.
