Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Cops for Kids Charitable Foundation
September 08, 2017 - 11:12 AM
On Friday Sept. 8, 25 riders and six support people from RCMP and supporting enforcement agencies within South Eastern BC embarked on the 2017 Cops for Kids Ride from Kelowna this morning.
The 16th annual ride will take the team across the RCMP’s South East District to raise awareness and essential funds for children in medical, physical or traumatic crisis.
During their 10-day fundraising journey, Cops for Kids riders cycle nearly 1,000 km of mountainous terrain across the Okanagan, Kootenay and Thompson regions that encompasses the RCMP’s South East District.
Along their route, they’ll be greeted by local dignitaries and their “Little Ambassadors” who receive funding from the annual event. Ride Captain Julio Krenz explains, it’s these interactions with families that remind the team why they’re out there to make a difference for local children. “These riders suffer through their own pain cycling the distance, but they know it’s nothing compared to the struggles faced by these smiling kids. These kids are an inspiration to our team, and that’s what keeps them pedalling day after day.”
Funds raised from this event stay within our communities to fund specific items required by children facing illness, disability or traumatic crisis through a grant application process. Since 2001 the group has raised over $4 million dollars through their fundraising efforts.
“With many of the riders having completed another long season of summer policing duties, they’re now heading out the door again to continue to give back to their community. With a short turn around, this shows what an exemplary group of committed individuals make up this special team,” boasts Cops for Kids President Grant Fletcher. “Each rider has volunteered and trained on their own time, in addition to raising a minimum of $2,000 in order to be a part of our team,” he adds. “We’ve got great sponsors, donors, and supporters who will be cheering us on from home so we’re excited to hit the road and make them proud.” Members of the public are encouraged to meet with the team during their stops in each community to make a donation or to learn more about what they do.
Donations are graciously accepted at any time. To follow the team along their journey or to make a donation please visit the website at www.copsforkids.org.
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