It started with riding a bike.

In 2006, our founder and Executive Director, Ann Donaca, was eager to teach her son Cody to ride a bike. Cody, who experiences Down syndrome, struggled. They realized this would be a much longer journey.

Ann discovered adaptive bike devices that help riders learn the skills to ride a typical two wheel bicycle. She knew the technology could help Cody and others with disabilities — but community support would be just as important.

Ann brought adaptive bikes to town and rallied friends, neighbors, and cycling enthusiasts to volunteer at a bike camp. It worked: Cody rode on two wheels, and in 2007, Bike First! was officially established.

Since then, hundreds of riders and volunteers have joined us. Riding a bike is more than exercise - it’s independence, connection, and joy.

Today, by evolving our name to Inclusion Empowers! ™, we are broadening our reach beyond yearly Bike First! camps to host events, workshops, and programs that support people with disabilities, their families, teachers, and peers.

Interested in supporting us?

Inclusion Empowers!™ is an Oregon-based public benefit nonprofit corporation that aims to create an environment where everyone, especially those with disabilities, can fully participate, learn, and discover the freedom of new skills.

Inclusion Empowers!™ is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization.