Our Story

AdaptAbility was born out of the heart of Sandra Alfonzo, a devoted bicycle store owner and a four-time marathon runner. The idea for AdaptAbility began one day while Sandra was training in Prospect Park, where she saw a special-needs child in a wheelchair, watching with longing as other children rode by on their bikes. In that moment, Sandra’s heart broke for that child, and she knew, deep down, that she had to do something to help—something that would change how this child, and so many others, felt.

After months of thought and reflection, Sandra came up with a beautiful idea: “What if, every time a customer at Behind Bars, a local Brooklyn bicycle shop, had a flat tire fixed, they donated just 25¢, and Behind Bars matched that donation?” With this small but powerful act of generosity, the shop could raise enough money in just one season to provide an adaptive bicycle to a child in need. Sandra’s vision blossomed—what if other local businesses and suppliers joined in? Together, they could ensure that many deserving children received bikes each year, opening up a world of freedom, joy, and independence for them.

And so, AdaptAbility was born.

We believe that every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves the chance to feel the wind in their hair and the joy of riding a bike. No child should ever be limited by their family’s income, location, or transportation. Through AdaptAbility, we bring communities together—businesses, customers, neighbors, and friends—uniting to share the simple but powerful gift of cycling with children who need it most. Every donation, no matter how small, helps bring a smile to a child’s face and a sense of freedom to their world.

We believe in Cycling

Bicycles have been around since the 19th century, originally designed as a two-wheeled mode of transportation that required balance from the rider. Over the years, bicycles have evolved with new technology, but they’ve never lost the core of their original design. What began as a tool for travel soon became a vehicle for recreation, exercise, and competition—and their power to transform lives remains just as profound today.

At AdaptAbility, we believe that bicycles are more than just a means of getting from one place to another. They are a gateway to improved physical health, boosted self-esteem, and greater independence. For children with special needs, adaptive bicycles are not just a tool—they are a lifeline. Through adaptive bicycles, children with special needs are offered the same opportunities for exercise, mobility, and adventure that every child deserves.

By making cycling accessible to all, AdaptAbility is giving these children the chance to build muscle strength, improve their coordination, and experience the outdoors in ways they never thought possible. With each ride, these children gain confidence and joy, and they experience the world from a new, empowering perspective.

AdaptAbility is on a mission to ensure that every child—no matter their abilities—has the chance to experience the freedom, joy, and health benefits that come with riding a bicycle. It’s not just about mobility; it’s about opening doors to new possibilities and giving these children the chance to live life to the fullest.