ABOUT US
Using an adaptive tricycle, 3Wheel Therapy provides a free therapeutic riding experience to those who cannot ride a traditional bicycle. Volunteer pedalers (called Pilots) provide the leg work for a unique bicycle ride through tree-lined trails, at local parks or at partner facilities like nursing homes, day programs, schools or senior centers. Volunteer bicyclists accompany the Pilot and rider for safety. The team rides along the trail with conversation, appreciation of the natural environment, smiles and laughs.
3Wheel Therapy serves New Hanover County in Southeastern North Carolina and Summit County in Ohio.
Ken Kohler
Co-Founder & President
Ken has been passionately leading teams, casting vision and spear-heading radical change and growth in large and small organizations for over 20 years.
Ken received a bachelor's degree in Christian Ministry and master's degree in Spiritual Formation from Lincoln Christian University in Lincoln, IL. He served as a pastor for 7 years and has hosted a Christian Podcast.
As a pastor, leader, father and husband, Ken genuinely cares for people. At every ride, he takes the time to get to know our riders, their name, their story and how we can best serve them.
Nicole Kohler
Co-Founder &
Executive Director
Nicole is a Licensed Recreation Therapist (LRT) & Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). She obtained a Bachelor's degree in Recreation & Parks Administration (Therapeutic Recreation Sequence) from Illinois State University and a Master's degree in Recreation, Sport & Tourism from University of Illinois.
For the past 15 years, Nicole worked with people with disabilities of all ages in community parks and recreation, clinical settings, overnight camp, youth ministry, after-school programs and summer day camp.
Ken and Nicole reside in Carolina Beach, NC with their 3 children.
OUR STORY
3Wheel Therapy was birthed from a vision of providing a unique experience to people with disabilities in North Carolina that we saw in Bloomington, IL through a similar organization, Healing Rides. Following some research, we found that there were 6 other organizations in the US with a similar vision and service to people who cannot ride a traditional bicycle. Both Portland Wheelers (Portland, ME) and Sequim Wheelers (Sequim, WA) generously gave advice and time to help get the organization started. Portland Wheelers Board of Directors were great mentors through the process. We gathered talented advocates that have passionately supported people with disabilities, recreational opportunities and inclusion in their personal & professional lives to serve as the first Board of Directors. In May 2022, 3Wheel Therapy became a 501c3 organization based in Carolina Beach, NC. In June 2024, 3Wheel Therapy added a second location in Summit County, Ohio.