A benevolent concept started in Ohio by the late Rick Case in the early 1980s continues to put smiles on the faces of young children throughout South Florida. Now in its 38th year, the Rick Case Bikes for Kids program once again is collecting used bikes in good condition that, eventually, will be distributed during the holiday season through area Boys & Girls Clubs, as well as through other charities, churches and schools.

To date, the program has provided more than 125,000 bikes to nonprofits and organizations, like the Boys & Girls Clubs, that support children. This year’s goal is to collect at least 6,500 bikes; donations can be made at any of the Rick Case South Florida-area dealerships.

“We’ve asked our community to bring in a bike in good condition they no longer needed so it could be donated to children that wouldn’t have an opportunity to own a bicycle,” says Rita Case, president and CEO of Rick Case Automotive Group, whose husband recently died at age 77 after a battle with cancer. “It’s a win-win for everyone. The community would feel philanthropic being able to help a child and the children would be thrilled to have a bike of their own, many for the very first time.”

Rick Case dealerships in South Florida include: Rick Case Honda (15700 Rick Case Honda Way, Davie); Rick Case Acura (875 North State Road 7, Fort Lauderdale); Rick Case Hyundai (925 North State Road 7, Fort Lauderdale; and 3550 Weston Road, Davie); Rick Case Honda Cycles (15701 Rick Case Honda Way, Davie); Rick Case Fiat, Alfa Romeo & Maserati (3500 Weston Road, Davie); Rick Case Volkswagen (3520 Weston Road, Davie); and Rick Case Kia (14500 W Sunrise Blvd, Sunrise). For more information, visit rickcase.com.

Featured image: Ryan Case, Raquel Case, Rita Case and Rick Case at a previous Bikes for Kids event