EY Donates Adaptive Bikes
Donation Allows Would-Be Riders Access to Adaptive Bikes
Ernst & Young LLP Gives $30K for equipment and sponsorship of National Ability Center’s Summit Challenge
Kristin Murphy/Deseret News
PARK CITY, UT (August 19, 2014) Riding a bike is something most people take for granted. But for some individuals, it isn’t as easy as climbing on a two-wheeler and pedaling down the street.
A member of the global EY professional services organization, the firm donated $30,000 to the National Ability Center, almost of half of which went toward the purchase of two adaptive bicycles. And the money comes just in time for the National Ability Center’s annual Summit Challenge bicycle ride for people of all abilities.
“Through this donation, we are proud to give people with diverse abilities the freedom to ride, and to underscore EY’s broader commitment to supporting people with disabilities and veterans with achieving both personal and professional goals,” said Michael Bertolino, a Partner with Ernst & Young LLP. “I’m excited to be riding in the Summit Challenge because it allows me to pay respect to those individuals who put their lives on the line for our country’s freedom and to celebrate people of all abilities.”
Adaptive bicycles can cost thousands of dollars each, and the National Ability Center will use $14,000 of the Ernst & Young LLP donation on two bikes. The remaining $16,000 is part of the firm’s Summit Challenge title sponsorship. The event will be held Saturday, August 23, starting at the National Ability Center, 1000 Ability Way, in Park City. To register or for more information, visit www.discovernac.org/summit-challenge/.
“Our partnership with Ernst & Young is opening the door for people of all abilities to benefit from National Ability Center programs,” said Gail Loveland, National Ability Center executive director. “Their donation will have impact far beyond this year’s Summit Challenge.”
Loveland anticipates 30 veterans from the Wounded Warrior Project and more than 100 persons with disabilities to join in this year’s ride. Riders also participate by forming teams and gathering supporters to help raise awareness and funds for programs at the National Ability Center.The community also plays a big role. Corporate sponsorships are still available and volunteers are needed at rest stops, Loveland said.
The Summit Challenge named the 2012 Event of the Year by Cycling Utah offers three different course lengths: 102 miles, 52 miles, and 18 miles. All cyclists are fully supported throughout the rides as they weave through stunning mountains and soak in beautiful country views in Wasatch and Summit counties. Riders receive a swag bag that includes an event t-shirt and other items, plus lunch and live entertainment at the Summit Challenge Event Village throughout the day. There will be a 1.5-mile demonstration loop, kids’ activities, cycling vendors, and much more. Join the excitement about event via the hashtag #RideSummit and follow @AbilityCenter on Twitter for more information.
Entry fees allow persons with disabilities to ride for free and also support National Ability Center programs. For more information, contact Julia Rametta at (435) 200-0990 or juliar@discovernac.org.
About EY
EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities.
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Ernst & Young LLP is a member of the global EY organization that provides services to clients in the US.
About the National Ability Center
The National Ability Center empowers individuals of all abilities by building self-esteem, confidence and lifetime skills through sport, recreation and educational programs. Located in Park City, Utah, it is one of the largest in the country to provide recreational and sports opportunities to individuals with disabilities. The National Ability Center is recognized as a chapter of Disabled Sports USA and a Paralympic Sports Club of USA Paralympics. Each year, the National Ability Center provides thousands of lessons in programs including skiing, horseback riding, cycling and archery. For more information, visit www.discovernac.org.
