Westcliff University and Unlimited Possibilities Unite for Life-Changing Bike Camp

Westcliff University served as the exclusive sponsor and volunteer partner for the “UP to Us Bike Camp,” a life-changing and impactful event. This weeklong camp took place in Santa Ana, California, from July 10-14 and welcomed 40 attendees aged 8 and above, including individuals with and without disabilities. The participants came together with a common goal: to learn how to ride a bike on two wheels. Throughout the camp, they received guidance from Westcliff University volunteers and beyond, using specially designed bikes equipped with balancing wheels. These wheels enabled the riders to gradually and safely transition to riding on two wheels. Additionally, the bikes were equipped with a handle at the back for the rider’s volunteer partner to hold and provide guidance during this learning journey. Learning to ride a bike is a significant milestone in many people’s lives, promoting independence and inclusion. The bike camp aimed to equip its attendees with lifelong skills that would have a lasting impact.

Unlimited Possibilities is a nonprofit organization driven by a powerful mission to challenge conventional beliefs and transform the lives of children and families facing disabilities. The organization rejects the limitations imposed by diagnoses and instead focuses on unlocking the untapped potential within each individual. Their advocacy centers around promoting joy, progress, and an improved quality of life. The organization constantly pushes the boundaries of what is considered “possible.” Westcliff University has established a strong relationship with Unlimited Possibilities through numerous collaborative efforts, such as the Life Without Limits Golf Tournament and Special Forces Sports Day, all in the name of fostering a culture of volunteerism and giving back.

Amy Dibello, director of alumni affairs & career services at Westcliff and dedicated volunteer, attended the camp daily and witnessed the incredible growth in skills and confidence among the campers throughout the week. Some campers even became fully self-sufficient, riding typical bikes without any assistance. When asked about her experience, Amy expressed her admiration for the event and its participants, stating, “It was mind-blowing and deeply heartwarming to witness the campers’ progression. Events like this are crucial as they play a role in transforming lives. Riding a bike is a rite of passage at any age, and we didn’t have to look far to witness it. The week was filled with squeals of glee, overcoming fears, building balance, focus, and confidence. Ultimately, all riders experienced triumph, victory, joy, and freedom. This is the essence of what Westcliff University stands for.”

The event was a source of excitement and joy for everyone involved, including the volunteers, bike riders, as well as the parents and guardians who had the opportunity to witness their campers thrive and make progress on their bikes. Darcy, a mother attending with her two participating children, shared her thoughts on the event and its significance to her twin daughters, saying, “The girls absolutely love bike camp. It has been the main topic of discussion all week, and they can’t wait to go back each day. Seeing them progress on the bike every day has been amazing and rewarding.” The campers, with the incredible support of the event’s volunteers, made strides in skill and confidence both on and off the bike throughout the duration of the camp.

The success of this remarkable event was made possible through the collaboration of many individuals, particularly the invaluable assistance of 72 community volunteers. Melinda Wilkes, from Unlimited Possibilities, expressed her thoughts on the event’s success, stating, “UP to Us Bike Camp has been a dream come true for many families in Orange County. I am truly amazed by our campers. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, many campers were able to ride independently on two wheels. The smiles, cheers, and determination displayed were enough to fuel me for years to come. I am still smiling. Programs like these are the reason I chose to work in the nonprofit sector. I am incredibly proud of each and every camper and volunteer.”

Thanks to Westcliff University’s generous sponsorship, the event was completely free and accessible to all. This showcases the University’s commitment to inclusion and giving back to the community.

To learn more about Unlimited Possibilities and the invaluable resources they provide, please visit uptheimpact.org, and join Westcliff University as an employee or student to take part in our future volunteer activities.