Quinnipiac held its annual Go Baby Go car pickup event on Nov. 9 where four families who have children with disabilities received custom-made, battery-powered ride-on cars on the North Haven Campus.

The event celebrated the culmination of a semester-long project in which graduate physical therapy students, in partnership with other campus groups such as occupational therapy students, modified battery-powered ride-on cars for children with physical disabilities.

The event featured fittings, a decorated obstacle course, a “car wash” and a DIY license plate station. Each adapted car costs about $500 to build. Families were from Connecticut, New York and Rhode Island.

“Working as part of this team has showed me just how much we can impact the lives of these children and families by providing them with a new way to explore their environment,” said student Kaitlyn Fitzgerald, a Go Baby Go team leader. “This event is truly heartwarming to see the excitement from each child as they take their first ride."

Quinnipiac’s participation in Go Baby Go, a national program launched by the University of Delaware, began in 2012. Graduate students work in small teams to customize donated ride-on cars to match the physical needs of children with disabilities.

Modifications included rewiring controls to hand-operated buttons for children unable to use foot pedals, installing five-point harnesses and soft supports made from kickboards and pool noodles, adapting seating for posture and comfort and adding safety features and personalized decorations.

"Go Baby Go is truly special because it has a profound impact on everyone who takes part in it,” student team leader Matt Horn said. “The children and their families are empowered through their new means of exploration while also reminding us students the power we have to make a difference in the community. It’s an inspiring experience that stays with you."