Until recently, riding a bike was something Garrett Shaw could only watch others do.

However, thanks to Augusta AMBUCS, the 8-year-old has been able to switch roles.

The organization presented Garrett, who has cerebral palsy, with an AmTryke bike during its weekly meeting Nov. 13. He had been testing it out for a couple of months.

"Ethan, one of Garrett's older brothers, used to be outside riding his bike and all Garrett could do was watch. You could tell how much he wanted to be out there riding along with him," said his mother, Bobbie Shaw. "Now, it's the other way around. Ethan will watch as Garrett rides and encourage him. Garrett loves it. It means a lot to him to finally ride a bike."

AmTrykes are tricycles designed for people who aren't able to ride traditional bikes. They can be operated by hand, foot or both.

The mission of Augusta AMBUCS is to provide mobility and independence for people with disabilities. Since 1998, the nonprofit organization has given away about 50 AmTryke bikes.

"The key is that we are providing something you can't get from just anywhere. You aren't going to find these bikes in Wal-Mart or a store like that," said Billy Mitchell, the secretary for Augusta AMBUCS. "So, when we give away bikes, we know that we are providing something that will bring joy and a sense of freedom."

The bike also helps with therapy, said Garrett's physical therapist, Robyn Budenstein.

"While riding his bike, he can learn how to better coordinate his arm and leg movements," she said. "Then, because he's motivated to ride the bike, he will repeat the movements a lot, which in turn strengthens them. Garrett sees it as having fun. I see it as exercising through play."

The tricycles are made by AmTryke LLC, which is owned and operated by National AMBUCS, an organization founded in 1922 as American Business Clubs.