A memorial bike ride to raise funds for Down syndrome will be staged in Lehighton.

The Second Annual Revolutions for Inclusion will be held on June 18 at the Lehighton Outdoor Center.

On Monday, Jerry McAward, owner of the Lehighton Outdoor Center, and Kerri Didario, Executive Director, Eastern Pennsylvania Down Syndrome Center, discussed the event with borough council.

“Revolutions for Inclusion is a family-friendly, recreational, all abilities, bike ride in memory of our friend, Sandro, on the beautiful D&L Trail with proceeds benefiting the Eastern Pennsylvania Down Syndrome,” Didario said. “Before his tragic passing in 2020, Sandro was an active board member and Down syndrome advocate who had assembled a great planning team and laid the groundwork to fulfill his dream of hosting a bike event that promotes inclusion.”

Didario said the event was held last year, and that this year’s event is expected to bring together people of all ages, including individuals with Down syndrome, family and friends, along with corporate supporters from the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas.

She said the event will raise both awareness about Down syndrome, and critical funds to support programs and advocacy work of the Eastern Pennsylvania Down Syndrome Center.

Funds raised at the Revolutions for Inclusion Bike Ride allow the Eastern Pennsylvania Down Syndrome Center to equip families and individuals influenced by Down syndrome with the latest medical advancements, social, emotional and education support in order to maximize each individual’s potential.

The Eastern Pennsylvania Down Syndrome Center was founded in 1999 by local parents seeking support and medical services for their children with Down syndrome.

Registration includes a custom cycling water bottle, drinks, light refreshments, music, tickets for raffle prizes, vendors and children’s activities for all registered participants.

Helmets for those 14 and under are available to take home at no charge while supplies last.

To register for Revolutions for Inclusion, visit https://give.classy.org/Revolutions22, call the Eastern Pennsylvania Down Syndrome Center at 610-402-0184, or visit theepdsc@gmail.com.

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