Press room ... 2004 archive

Dedicated Supporters Cycle in Ireland and
Tuscany to Raise Funds for HIV/AIDS Cause

July 6, 2004

San Francisco, CA—Project Inform and AIDS Foundation of Chicago will be two of the beneficiaries of funds raised through two week-long bike rides; through southwest Ireland and Italy's Tuscan hills. Riders from around the U.S. and abroad are energized by the challenging week-long cycling vacation and philanthropic goals of the ride.

Ride Coordinator Robbie Webber continues to be the dynamic motivation for these events, and has participated since the ride's inception in 2001. "I enjoy this type of activity the most—the kind that combines a worthy cause to my personal love of riding and traveling," Webber said. "Our commitment to providing 100% of the proceeds to the beneficiaries sets this event up as example of another innovative approach to helping nonprofits maintain their much-needed services."

Ride For A Cause organizes week-long bicycle rides in exotic destinations and sends 100% of donations to benefiting organizations like Project Inform. Riders, crewmembers and sponsors pay all expenses related to events through a registration fee of $1,000 per person. In addition, riders are required to raise $1,500 in donations.

The Tuscan AIDS Bicycle Ride kicks off September 12–18, 2004 . Riders will stay in a six-century villa that serves as their base camp. From this central location, day trips into the surrounding countryside include visits to centuries—old monasteries, hot springs, castles and vineyards. The terrain is often challenging, and 15% grades are the norm for the area. Registration is limited to 14 participants.

The Ireland AIDS Bicycle Ride originates in the Ireland seaport of Cork City, and runs August 14–21, 2004. Riders will travel more than 350 miles through the rolling hills of southwest Ireland, staying in cozy rural inns and enjoying native sights and hearty local fare. Registration is limited to 18 participants.

The group's fundraising success is impressive—riding several thousand miles and raising much-needed dollars for worthwhile organizations. Community participation in support of this event is simple. Individuals from the community as well as organizations, companies and foundations can all assist in the ride's success through donor support and promotion. This year marks the third year of Ride For A Cause events, and hopes to raise more than $60,000 for Project Inform and other nonprofit organizations selected by the Riders themselves.