Caron Butler Teams with President Obama for Kids’ Fitness

Caron Butler first hit the bike scene five years ago with his 3D Bike Brigade. Since then, his organization has provided more than 3,000 bikes for underprivileged children. “The Bike Brigade which I created in 2005, is a program that is all about getting kids on bikes, and keeping them active, healthy and most importantly out of trouble,“ said NBA All-Star Butler.

Butler, looking to expand the reach of his program, partnered with the League this year and participated in our June ride down the, then newly installed, bike lanes on D.C.’s Pennsylvania Ave. The League’s mission to create a bicycle-friendly America through advocacy and education clicked with Butler’s dreams of  a country where all of our children get to enjoy the freedom and fun of riding a bicycle. The Crown Prince of Denmark Frederik André Henrik Christian, the Ambassador of Denmark Friis Arne Petersen, and Chairmen Jim Oberstar (D-MN) and Tom Petri (R-WI) also joined the ride.

Butler on the June 7 ride down Pennsylvania Ave.'s bike lane

The League and Butler’s partnership, along with the royal ride, gave the Brigade a national platform. Now, six months later, Butler has teamed with President Obama’s Million PALA Challenge — Presidential Active Lifestyle Award (reported in USA Today). The PALA will be given to youth who complete 60 minutes of physical activity a day, at least five days a week, for six weeks and log their activity online at PresidentsChallenge.org.

“I am excited to use … (the Bike Brigade) … to promote the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award. Together, we will be able to reach even more kids with the powerful message of leading healthy lifestyles and staying fit through cycling and regular activity,” said Butler.

The League is extremely proud of Butler’s initiative and commitment to get more children on bicycles. We look forward to future efforts.