The 46th Annual Anchor House Foundation Ride for Runaways concluded recently at Quaker Bridge Mall as Riders were met with applause to celebrate their efforts and coming home from the “Classic” Ride journey from Harrisonburg, VA to Trenton.
This year 114 Riders participated in the week-long 500 mile ride. There were 13 six-week Flex Riders and 11 Flex Walk/Run participants.
For Tom Julian, Rider for nine years, 2024 was a family team effort. His wife Brenda was a Flex Rider and their oldest child Astur was on the support team.
Tom reflects on why he rides and the impact of Anchor House:
Why I Ride
“Many of the kids of Anchor House come from homes where their parents have succumbed to addiction. Some are rejected after coming out as LGBTQ. Many arrive at Anchor House after years of being hungry and exhausted, lacking the ability to succeed at school, and without the basic skills young adults need.
I’ve been a supporter of Anchor House for the last 10 years, and it’s not just with donations. I take part in something pretty crazy. Each year, a group of cyclists rides 500 miles over 7 days to raise money for “The House.” Along the way, we sweat and strain to cover the miles and get up those hills. Each and every peddle stroke is for the kids.
The impact of Anchor House is nothing short of incredible. I believe there is nothing more powerful than the potential of young people. Many of the kids arrive with little hope and zero prospects. Provided with shelter, food, peace, and skills development programs – these kids thrive.”
Anchor House thanks all the participants, their donors and the Foundation board and volunteers for another successful event.
“The Riders are part of a solution to help youth and young adults in need access services at Anchor House. Funds raised each year, through the Foundation, provide critical income to continue our operations and keep our doors open,” says Kim McNear, Anchor House Executive Director.
Foundation funds partially support Anchor House’s annual general operating expenses to help cover costs not met by private and government funding. The Foundation will be accepting donations over the next few weeks.
Read More About the Anchor House Foundation Ride for Runaways and Donate
