In October, Therapeutic Associates proudly partnered with Go Baby Go Oregon for Physical Therapy Day of Service (PTDOS), helping create customized ride-on cars that give children with disabilities greater mobility, independence, and joy.
PTDOS is a global initiative that encourages physical therapists, students, and staff to give back to their communities in meaningful ways. This year marked our fourth annual collaboration with Go Baby Go Oregon, hosted through OHSU Hospital. It was another unforgettable day that perfectly captured the spirit of service and the heart of our profession.
Building Joy, One Ride at a Time
How Adapted Ride-On Cars Support Early Childhood Mobility
During the build, physical therapists from across our company, joined by their families, volunteered their time and skills to modify and customize ride-on toy cars for children with disabilities.
Each car was adapted to meet the unique needs of its future driver, complete with custom harnesses, switches, and support systems designed to promote safe, independent mobility and, most importantly, fun! Our youth orthopaedic physical therapists often contribute their knowledge of growth, strength, and joint mechanics to make sure every car supports safe movement.
The event culminated in a joyful moment as the children and their families arrived to be fitted for their new cars. Watching each child take their first drive, and seeing the excitement light up their faces, reminded everyone why this work matters so deeply.
The smiles, laughter, and proud cheers filled the room, underscoring how access to mobility truly transforms lives.
The Power of Early Mobility
Why Movement Matters for Child Development
Early mobility plays a crucial role in a child’s motor, cognitive, and social development. Independent movement allows children to explore their environment, learn cause and effect, and engage more fully with the world around them. For children with limited mobility, these opportunities are often restricted. Programs like Go Baby Go change that.
By enabling children to move freely, these adapted cars open the door to organic social interactions with peers, encouraging spontaneous play and connection. The cars don’t just provide mobility; they create moments of inclusion and joy. They offer an exciting spark that draws children together, the kind of interaction that nurtures confidence, curiosity, and belonging.
Youth orthopaedic physical therapy can help identify children who may benefit most from adapted mobility devices, supporting healthy growth and musculoskeletal alignment.
A Personal Connection
Our Four-Year Partnership with Go Baby Go Oregon
My connection to Go Baby Go began during one of my clinical rotations at the Child Development and Rehabilitation Center (CDRC) at OHSU. I was immediately inspired by the creativity and dedication of the therapists who volunteered their time to help children experience the freedom and joy of movement through these adapted cars.
Four years ago, Therapeutic Associates hosted our very first build event and each year since, it’s been incredible to see our team’s enthusiasm grow. This ongoing collaboration with Go Baby Go Oregon has become a meaningful tradition, allowing our providers, families, and community members to come together in service of a shared mission.
Go Baby Go Oregon is powered by physical therapists who generously dedicate their time and expertise to making these builds happen and it was an honor for our team to join them once again in that mission.
Looking Ahead
Continuing Our Commitment to Pediatric Mobility and Inclusion
At Therapeutic Associates PT, we’re proud to support programs like Go Baby Go Oregon through Our Giving initiatives, helping children experience the joy of movement and independence.This year’s Physical Therapy Day of Service reminded me that the essence of our profession goes far beyond the clinic walls. It’s about empowering movement, inspiring participation, and creating opportunities for every person to thrive. I’m so grateful to Go Baby Go Oregon, OHSU, and all the volunteers and families who helped make this event such a success.
I look forward to continuing this collaboration and building even more cars, and smiles, in the years to come. If you’re passionate about making a difference through physical therapy, consider joining our team — explore opportunities on our careers page.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is GoBabyGo Oregon?
GoBabyGo Oregon is a volunteer-driven program that adapts ride-on toy cars for children with disabilities, giving them opportunities for early mobility, independence, and play. - How does early mobility benefit child development?
Early mobility supports a child’s motor, cognitive, and social development. Independent movement helps children explore, build confidence, and engage more fully with peers. - What happens during a PTDOS GoBabyGo build event?
Physical therapists and volunteers customize ride-on cars with specialized switches, seating supports, and harness systems to meet each child’s unique needs. - Why does Therapeutic Associates participate in Physical Therapy Day of Service?
PT Day of Service is a global initiative encouraging physical therapists to give back to their communities. Therapeutic Associates participates annually to support meaningful programs that align with their mission to empower movement for all. - Can families request an adapted car for their child?
Families interested in adaptive ride-on cars can connect with GoBabyGo Oregon through OHSU to learn about upcoming builds, eligibility, and availability.
Make a Difference with Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy
At Therapeutic Associates, we believe in empowering movement — both in the clinic and in our communities. Join us and help kids move, explore, and thrive — in the clinic or the community. Check out our CAREER OPPORTUNITIES or learn about OUR GIVING.
