Virtually bike/run/walk across America this April to keep our mission moving forward

The coronavirus pandemic has certainly put a crimp in people’s lifestyles across America — and in more than 150 countries around the world for that matter. Many people have been asked to stay home, if possible, and not travel unnecessarily. President Trump has asked that Americans continue social distancing and such precautions through at least April 30.

But April 2020 does not have to be a lost month. In fact, it can be a productive one! The Fuller Center Bicycle Adventure — whose annual spring ride down the Natchez Trace Parkway has been rescheduled for October — has come up with a novel way for you to support The Fuller Center for Housing’s affordable housing ministry throughout the month of April. And you don’t even have to own a bicycle … or even leave your house.

The Bicycle Adventure’s Home Challenge allows cyclists to log their miles from home — whether they are biking around the countryside or spinning in the comfort of their own home — and virtually be part of the Adventure. Better yet, these virtual circumstances make it possible for walkers and joggers to also take part in the Challenge, also logging their distances from going around the neighborhood or using a treadmill. Even hikers and swimmers can dive into the Challenge!

“We’re at a unique time in history where we can try something new,” said Ryan Iafigliola, The Fuller Center’s Vice President of International Operations, who founded the Bicycle Adventure back in 2008 and remains involved in its planning. “Already we’re seeing that it’s a great way to reconnect with people who haven’t been able to join our rides for a few years.”

With gyms across America shuttered and social distancing the norm, this is a novel way for you to stay active and make a difference at the same time. Money raised during the Home Challenge will be used the same as funds during an ordinary Bicycle Adventure event — to build and repair homes through The Fuller Center’s ministry.

“We really hope that people who’ve never touched our bike rides will give this a try,” Iafigliola said. “Turn your socially distant, repetitive walk around your block into a community adventure going through the whole beautiful country — and into something that makes a difference in the lives of others.”

The Bicycle Adventure is the single biggest fundraising initiative for The Fuller Center, which like many nonprofits is facing some unusually strong headwinds this year. Fortunately, everyone can now be a part of the Adventure and help those winds blow with us rather than against us.

Simply click the button below for all of the details about how to join, how to track your miles, how to raise money, how to earn prizes and other information.

home challenge