The Kevin Degen Open Road Foundation is dedicated to helping people with special needs find freedom and independence through biking.

Throughout his life, Kevin inspired others to overcome their challenges and reach beyond their limits while enjoying the camaraderie of the open road. In the spirit of Kevin's determination and generosity, we endeavor to create opportunities for special needs children and other individuals to experience the same joy, freedom, and sense of accomplishment Kevin did when he was out on the road with his friends.

We do this by helping children and their parents with education, adaptive bicycles, training, and support. We also continue to sponsor those organizations that were so near and dear to Kevin's heart, like the M.S. Society and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Kevin Degen

Kevin was born with Cerebral Palsy and while he only had the use of his left arm and leg, he became an avid cyclist riding many thousands of miles to raise money for charity. During the course of his life, Kevin raised over a half a million dollars primarily for organizations that assist children with special needs. In 1995, he rode his bike from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. in seven weeks while raising over $50,000 for the Kenny Foundation.

Kevin received numerous local and national awards for his accomplishments and selfless generosity. For example, he was presented with an Academy Award for the Handicapped in Boston, Massachusetts, he was elected Groves High School Alumnus of the Year, and he was invited to serve as an Olympic Torch Bearer for the Olympic Games in Atlanta.

He was also inducted into the Athletes with Disabilities Hall of Fame in the State of Michigan. Kevin's kind smile, determination, and perseverance were an inspiration to all who met him — especially those struggling to overcome obstacles in their own lives.