“And I can’t wait to get on the road again…” Perhaps, the great Willie Nelson sang it best, and those who enjoy hitting the road for adventure understand the need to get out there and see the beauty and history of many amazing cities and towns across America. Here are some favorite organizations to think about joining for your next ride when you want to “put the pedal to the metal” for an excellent cause.
1. Veterans Charity Ride (VCR)
This is a cool group of riders who want to make a difference in veterans’ lives. The Veterans Charity Ride (VCR) is a wonderful nonprofit that helps wounded vets experience the fun and adventure of motorcycle therapy.
Join fellow veterans in a charity motorcycle ride that visits some of the nation’s most beautiful backroads.
These brave men and women have given so much to the United States of America, and VCR wants to show them the love, support, and respect they deserve.
2. Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America
Famous Nascar driver Kyle Petty needs no introduction, but did you know that he also loves motorcycles?
Yes, indeed, and that is why Petty established his organization some 27 years ago. His mission is to help maintain a camp for kids with serious illnesses and chronic medical conditions. It’s called Victory Junction, and he’s already gearing up for the 2023 Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America taking place on April 29 through May 5, 2023.
Each participant is required to have a valid motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license. A five-gallon tank motorcycle is also required, but other than that, any type of bike can join the ride.
3. Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
Here is another incredible organization that focuses on raising funds for children with brain tumors. The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation debuted its famous Rides for Kids event in 1991, and it’s still going strong. The organization schedules charity rides in more than 20 different cities each year.
You’ll have a blast hitting the road and connecting and fundraising with riders in the area. You can even search for “motorcycle rental near me” for your special event. It’s so easy to do. Just search by brand, location, or price to find the best available bike for you. Then, enter your driver’s license number to reserve the motorcycle.
4. Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom
This iconic event draws hundreds of thousands of motorcycle participants every year in Washington, D.C. It’s the world’s biggest, single motorcycle charity ride around and raises funds for the American military’s Prisoners of War (POW) and those soldiers Missing in Action (MIA).
The ride takes off from the Pentagon and makes a historic spin over the Memorial Bridge, circles the National Mall, and finishes at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Rolling Thunder attracts more than a million riders and spectators combined.
5. Tour of Honor
Maybe you would prefer to do a self-directed charity ride at your own pace. The Tour of Honor event lets you select any route you please as you visit various monuments and memorials around the nation.
Riders rave about the Tour of Honor because it is a cool way to see the United States of America and takes you along many new roads to discover. You can visit as many historical sites as you want around the continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii.
Another nice incentive is the trophies handed out to the first three riders to visit all of the memorials in a state or region.
6. Sturgis Rally
Here is yet another awesome charitable event that gives back to the Sturgis Volunteer Fire Department and Police Reserve of Sturgis, South Dakota. The Sturgis Rally is a fun time that gets loud and proud throughout the community.
There is a large variety of events to join, including a motorcycle ride with the Sturgis mayor leading the pack through the Black Hills. Later, there’s a stop at the famous Mount Rushmore Monument for photos and connecting with fellow riders.
Bottom Line
If you enjoy being on the road, you’ll find many, charity-worthy trips for exploring the country and giving back to others. It’s a win-win for everyone!
