Journey of Hope cyclists bring message of disability awareness, acceptance to WNC event
Submitted by Isaiah Burrows on Fri, 06/16/2017 - 8:23pm
Event Date:
June 16, 2017 - 5:00pm
After a 35 mile bike ride from Lake Tahoe, the Journey of Hope made a brief stop Friday at Western Nevada College in Carson City. A group of 29 cyclists from Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity were welcomed by dozens of volunteer organizations throughout the community.
Some of these volunteer organizations included: Deaf Centers of Nevada, A.T.A.P, Spina Bifida Association, Silver State Fair Housing Council, Family Support Council, and Down Syndrome Network of Northern Nevada.
The Journey of Hope is currently on a 3,720 mile cycling trip across the country, starting their intense expedition in San Francisco and ending in Washington, D.C. Throughout their travels, they hope to spread the message of helping others with disabilities in any way possible. The group has raised close to $700,000 through grant funding, community engagement and bike activities. Their message is quite refreshing: Everyone should be treated with respect and acceptance.
Project director, and lead rider Daniel Hansbury described the goal of the event.
“The ultimate goal is total acceptance and understanding of people with or without disabilities. And until that is accomplished, then our goal is not complete," he said. “We have accomplished many other goals, but there is still a lot of room to grow and develop this program. And a lot of people to spread this message to.”
During the event, activities ranged from jumping in a bounce house, to taking part in a science experiment. After filling their stomachs with an event barbecue, many of the members connected with disabled children through games, conversation and prizes.
Certificates of recognition were given out to the Journey of Hope for their efforts and awareness to various communities. Letters from Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval and U.S. Sen. Dean Heller came with the prestigious certificates as well, congratulating them on their well deserved efforts and successes.
Project manager of the WNC event Kari Hope spoke about the impact of Journey of Hope.
“Every year we get a chance to celebrate these amazing cyclists,” Hope said. “Donating their own time riding across country and raising awareness is so cool. And we appreciate that so much, and this is our opportunity to say 'thank you' and give back a little bit.”
Journey of Hope rider Daniel Gramer gave his thoughts on the Carson City community.
“The atmosphere and people here are awesome," he said. "I have loved every second so far.”
Gramer also spoke about their recent bike expedition.
“It has been amazing, six days in and already we have had an incredible experience,” he said. “From the reviews, to the visits, and the struggles on the bike...our goal is to raise awareness as well as raise money to support these great organizations.”
The Journey of Hope will continue their voyage into Fallon on Saturday.
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