I Can Shine Bike Camp helps campers lose the training wheels

The I Can Shine Bike Camp rolled into Camarillo this week.

The week-long event, held in Santa Barbara last year, set up shop at the Mission Oaks Corporate Center.

Organizers from the Pleasant Valley and Conjeo Recreation & Park Districts worked together to put on the camp for individuals with disabilities.

A high percentage never learn how to ride a bike.

With the help of volunteers and specially equipped bicycles dozens of campers learned to ride.

Campers had 75-minute lessons once a day. They were asked not to ride at home until camp is over on Friday. By then they will have an increased sense of self-esteem.

Recreation Supervisor Jeri Armstrong said she has seen their increased confidence spill over into other aspects of their life. Knowing how to ride a bicycle will also offer them transportation and physical fitness.

Sponsors included the Newbury Park Bike Shop, Autism Society of Ventura County and Channel Islands Social Services.