For as long as his family can remember, Ricky Schmidt has brought joy to the people around him. They’ve been spending years returning the favor.
Schmidt’s family and friends will gather once again next month for the 18th Annual Ricky’s Ride Motorcycle Run, which raises money for one of his favorite causes, the Tinley Park-based South Suburban Special Recreation Association.
Schmidt, 59, who has Down syndrome, has been enjoying weekly programs there for years. SSSRA gives him regular access to activities such as fishing, bowling, and bocce — his event in Special Olympics. There’s holiday events such as fall fest and the Monster Mash, and of course, the dances.
“He is quite the dancer,” said Lisa Drzewiecki, executive director of the organization.
Along with the chance to show off his moves, the Ricky’s Ride Motorcycle Run, scheduled for Sept. 15, gives him an annual opportunity to enjoy a motorcycle ride. The dancing comes later at an afterparty with live music, raffles and plenty of food.
“He enjoys it a lot,” said his brother, Bob Schmidt. “We run a three wheel and he rides with me and dances with the band.
“He’s really happy all the time and really loveable,” he said.
When not at SSSRA, Bob Schmidt said, some of his brother’s favorite pastimes are playing with their dog, a boxer named Mugsy who is very protective of him, as well as swimming in their pool, watching Mickey Mouse and Family Feud, playing poker machines at a bar and going shopping.
Ricky also is a big White Sox and Bears fan, and has a little rivalry with Bob, who prefers the Cubs and Packers.
“He puts his Bears shirt on for all the games,” Bob said.
Ricky and Bob live in Country Club Hills with their siblings Jimmy and Deborah. Bob said communication sometimes can be a challenge for his brother but they make it work.
“Through his words, with his motions, we get to know what he wants,” said Schmidt. “Him, too, he understands us really well.”
Ricky’s niece, Sarah Reyes, also is a big part of his life.
Reyes, who runs the prize table at the fundraiser, called Ricky “a very kind person.”
“Just growing up around him, we always had fun,” she said. “He is very family-oriented.
“Everybody loves him everywhere he goes, he always makes a friend.”
Ricky’s family were looking for a way to give back to SSSRA, which they said has done a world of good for him, helping him with his social skills, offering ways to make new friends and giving him regular exercise and enjoyment. SSSRA is a therapeutic recreation program and extension of seven area park districts and three recreation and parks departments.
Bob Schmidt started Ricky’s Ride with the late Sean Fallon.
“Sean contacted me back in 2007 and simply stated, “We want to give back to the community and help people like Ricky and his friends,” remembered Drzewiecki.
And it’s made a difference. The ride, which averages about 300 motorcyclists, has raised more than $219,700, funds that help reduce program fees and provide scholarships to families who might not otherwise be able to participate.
“Everybody is welcome,” Reyes said. “It’s something worth experiencing.”
Sign-in for the event begins at 9 a.m. Sept. 15 at Oliver’s Bar and Grill, 6150 W. 159th St. in Oak Forest and at 10 a.m. at Brian’s, 25665 S. Governors Highway in Monee, and ends at 3 p.m. at New Image, 7815 Lincoln Highway, Frankfort. Information is at www.rickysride.org.
Janice Neumann is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
