2018 Lids for Kids Event Donates 200 Bikes to Area Youth

San Luis Valley Health's Lids for Kids helmet and bike giveaway drew another large crowd to the annual wellness and safety event at Cole Park in Alamosa on June 14, 2018.  Almost 200 bikes, trikes, and scooters were won by the lucky kids who had their number drawn. 

Julie Ramstetter, SLV Health Trauma Coordinator, is pleased with the great turnout!

"All I can say is that I am beyond blessed and love the SLVH team I work with," commented organizer Julie Ramstetter. "I also love how our community comes together for events like this. We had another great response from our SLVH staff, our amazing community partners and especially those that donated the bikes or donated the funds to purchase the bikes and helmets." 

There were plenty of events, including free sno-cones and ice cream, trying out CPR, mini climbing wall, firetrucks, and the AirMed helicopter to keep kids entertained as they waited for the drawing. ACE Hardware donated bike locks and the Alamosa Police Department was on hand to encourage bike owners to register their bikes.  At least two of the recipients commented on how their bikes were stolen last year.  Employees and providers from SLV Health, along with the Ambassador Volunteers generously donated bikes that totaled over $13,000.  CEO Konnie Martin remarked to the gathering crowd, "Our goal today is to share our passion for injury prevention and to have all of you and your families connect with the emergency responders and medical professionals who are here today." Centura Health donated the helmets and many SLV Health staff donated their time to help make this event a success. The Valley Courier mentioned this story on the front page of their Saturday, June 16, 2018 edition, story and photos by Jefferson Geiger.