Ride for Refuge is a Family Affair

Started in 2004 as a small local fundraiser with 25 cyclists raising money for refugees, the Ride for Refuge (also known as the "RIDE") has grown to a multi-site event in cities across the US and Canada. Each year, thousands of riders fundraise in support of refugees, orphans, victims of human trafficking, and homeless people, as well as projects that are approved by the Ride Partner Grant program. The RIDE is now offered by Blue Sea Philanthropy in partnership with International Teams Canada, and many of the ITCA head office staff ride each year in support of ITCA projects.

Sharon Wallace, ITCA’s Director of Organizational Development, participated in the Kitchener-Waterloo RIDE on October 1 with her husband and daughter. She says that riding as a family was a great experience that really drew them together. "Whether it was fundraising, just talking to Meaghan about why we were doing the RIDE, or actually biking the day of, we did it together. We encouraged each other and cheered each other on. And then to bike with other people and families who care about what we care about ... it brought tears to my eyes. So many people united around a good cause! What a good feeling."

Sharon’s 8-year-old daughter Meaghan only learned how to ride a bike this summer. Sharon tried to teach her, but struggled to run alongside due to Multiple Sclerosis. One day, after an hour of frustration, a stranger noticed them and offered to help. "Five minutes later, my daughter was biking on her own. If it wasn't for that kind stranger, I'm not sure if our family would have been able to bike in the RIDE! Angels sometimes come in dirty work clothes."

Aside from some strong winds and a brief tumble off her bike, Meaghan really enjoyed participating in her first RIDE, even volunteering to share some of her thoughts about the RIDE with Momentum readers.

Why did you participate in the Ride?
"I really like riding my bike and I like helping people."

Why did you keep on biking after you fell off?
It was the only way to get to the end. And I knew that widows, orphans and refugees have to fight more against pain than I do.

What do you hope happens with the money you raised?
"I hope they buy food or a little tent so that they can stay warm and cozy and hats and coats so they can stay warm. "

Anything you want to say to people who sponsored you?
"Thank you a lot. I really enjoyed the ride and the money goes to a good cause."

For more information about the RIDE, to sponsor a rider, or to join a team for the RIDE in your area, visit www.rideforrefuge.com and click on the Canadian flag.