The management of The Bicycle Casino, headed up by managing partner Haig Kelegian, is continuing its long-standing tradition of philanthropic donations that The Bicycle Casino has been know for since it’s opening in 1987. And while this group of well-known and experienced professionals has taken the old “Bike” swiftly and creatively into the 21st century they have not forgotten the surrounding community and the ongoing relationships with charitable organizations throughout the Southland.
The Bicycle Casino celebrates 21 years of success and support of their community of Bell Gardens, CA, this month. Their continued support of their community’s children is one accomplishment that brings great pride to the employees of the casino fondly referred to as “The Bike.”
In addition to The Bicycle Casino’s 21st annual Children’s Christmas Party held on December 22nd for over 1,700 underprivileged children from the local community, another worthy cause sponsored by the casino is the Rancho Los Amigos Medical Center Children’s Christmas Party to be held on Thursday, December 15, 2005, at 3:00 p.m.
Each year for the past 21 years, the casino has sponsored a Christmas party for the disabled children that either live at the hospital or will be in during the holidays. The children’s disabilities vary. Some are permanently in wheelchairs, some bedridden, and some with hearing, sight and speech impairments. Julie Helgren, Recreational Therapist for Rancho Los Amigos, is coordinating with the casino to put together a list including the children’s names and 3 gifts they would most like to receive from Santa Claus. A representative from the casino then goes out and purchases 2 of those gifts for each child. The gifts are wrapped and delivered to the children at the hospital by Santa Claus himself! This year’s event also includes a petting zoo in the hospital parking lot where the children will have the opportunity to experience animals up close (something that doesn’t happen too often inside the bounds of the hospital!)
Photo opportunities abound during this time of giving and joy. The press is invited to come and share the joy of these children.
