On August 5th, I'm participating in Raise + Ride to fundraise for Phoenix Bikes, my favorite Arlington youth education nonprofit that uniquely combines youth education programs with a full service bike shop. This year is particularly special as we have welcomed my first grand daughter, Elaine, into the family. It really drives home hope for the future, and the future is our youth. Phoenix Bikes provides a safe space for youth and gives them the opportunity to earn a bike for thenselves through the Earn-a-Bike program, and for others through the Give-a Bike program through which Phoenix donates bikes to community members in need. This progam is free for kids grades 6-12, allows them to earn their very own bike through their own hard work, and gets them out riding, racing, and giving back to the community with their new skills.
This year I'm joining a group of dedicated Arlington cyclists for The Mountain Mama, a 100 mile ride in West Virginia where there is 10,000 feet of vertical climbing. My goal is $5000 raised for Phoenix which 50 cents a vertical foot. Please give as much as you can, whether it be $5 or $500. Do it for Elaine, and all our youth! It's an investment in the future!!