Western Mass Wheelers provides free, safe, and enjoyable bike rides on specially adapted trikes for individuals unable to pedal on their own. Our focus is on seniors residing in senior care facilities and those living at home. The program offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, enhance mental well-being, and enjoy a refreshing change of scenery that supports physical health and overall quality of life. Rides take place on rail trails and peaceful streets allowing participants to experience the outdoors and engage with the broader community in a meaningful way.This work is deeply personal to me. My mom lived with dementia and spent time in a memory care facility where access to outdoor activities was limited. Western Mass Wheelers was created in part to honor her and to ensure that other families have more consistent, joyful access to the outdoors for their loved ones.Our program was inspired by Portland Wheelers and MDI Wheelers. I had the opportunity to see MDI Wheelers in action during the summer of 2023 and was struck by how simple the model was and how profound the impact could be. Around that time, my employer announced they were relocating their HQ, and I knew a career transition was ahead. I wanted to pursue work that created a positive difference in people’s lives. Launching Western Mass Wheelers felt like the right step offering a creative and much-needed solution to a challenge many older adults face: remaining active, connected, and outdoors.