Cops For Kids raises $375,000
The 22nd annual Cops for Kids Ride has come to an end after a successful ten-day cycling fundraising and awareness journey.
Participants, made-up of RCMP members and emergency responder personnel, departed from Kelowna Sept. 9 and cycled one-thousand kilometres in support of children suffering from mental, physical, and traumatic crisis.
The event ended Sunday, Sept. 19 in Kelowna, raising $375,000.
Constable Chris Terleski, media relations officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, said the dedicated team of riders spent the last year training for the 1,000 km cycle and fundraising initiatives along the way.
“Their lasting commitment is a true testament to the character of this group of 24 riders. During this year’s event, two of our members were recalled to duty due to emergent operational requirements in their own home communities. Though these members left our ranks mid-ride, their spirit remained with the team,” said Terleski.
The riders from the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP were Denise McMahon, Nick Reimann, Joel Kooger, Jonathan Klassen and Kathryn Ahvenus.
The trek went through Penticton, Osoyoos, Rossland, Nelson, Cranbrook, Golden, Revelstoke, and Salmon Arm, as well as several small communities in between each of the major stops.
At each community, the riders stop and meet the children they are supporting and their families, as well as members of the public.
“Meeting our Cops for Kids Little Ambassadors at the various community landings is definitely the highlight of the trip for all involved,” said Terleski. “Hearing their stories of their challenges and seeing their smiles remind the riders of the reason they joined the cause. These families rely on Cops for Kids throughout the year and, thanks to the fundraising efforts by all involved, the event raised $375,000 for 2022.”
The Cops for Kids Charitable Foundation thanks all our supporters and sponsors for their hospitality along the way. For more information, contact Courtney King, Event Coordinator (250) 801.4438 or email info@copsforkids.org
Since its launch in 2001, the Cops for Kids charitable foundation has raised over $6.1-million to support children and youth in the Interior.