7 days, 475 miles and 42,000 feet of climbing from the seat of a bicycle. That’s the goal of each Team Samaritan House cyclist. Sounds daunting no matter how I think about it. So why am I accepting this challenge?

Perhaps … it’s that this is a way to do something meaningful while riding my bike for many hours and many miles. Most who know me well understand that I am wired this way.

Perhaps … it’s something significant to do for the homeless mid-year between Fr. Woody Christmas Party for the Homeless events for which I volunteer each year….and which always includes a humbling but uplifting visit to the Samaritan House.

Perhaps … it’s that visiting Samaritan House reminds me to be grateful to have a roof over my head and food on my table every night.

Perhaps … it’s a way to do something more to celebrate the value of the Jesuit and Catholic experiences gained through my many years with Regis U.

Perhaps … it’s that I really enjoy my time with all these great new friends I have made while being a training partner with, and unofficial team member of, Team Samaritan House since its first Ride the Rockies experience.

Or

Perhaps … it’s the reality that homelessness is an unacceptable condition for entirely too many people in metro-Denver and Northern Colorado … and Catholic Charities makes lives measurably better for many through the shelters, housing and services they provide.

The team has set a minimum expectation of $1,500 per member with the stretch goal of $5,000. Those of you who have supported me in past fundraising efforts like this know that I am the first to step up with a meaningful donation. So, I am personally committing $500 to get us started.  

Please join me and my committed THS teammates/friends in helping these men, women and children find stability in their lives and resources to help them improve their futures.  

I appreciate your support at any level.

Russ