Encouraging the Chickens

I love our mission -- inspiring people to travel by bicycle. And I really appreciate hearing real-world examples of how our efforts (with your financial support) help people move from the dream into reality. Take for example, Michael Freed.

Mike is a 12-year member and a donor. When his daughter, Caroline, graduated from high school, the two of them planned and completed an unsupported bicycle tour together from Grand Rapids, MI, to Mike's childhood home on the New York/Vermont border. Mike wrote that he felt lucky "to have had the opportunity to make so many memories together " on an unsupported bicycle trip.

I believe there is nothing that compares to traveling by bicycle. You are forced to slow down and take each day at a time, soaking in the landscapes and interacting with people in a way not possible when you travel by automobile. The slower pace forces human interactions that create lasting memories.

Mike encouraged Adventure Cycling to keep doing what we are doing.... because it makes a difference.

"So you see, when you publish stories, and sell touring gear, and create maps, you constantly encourage a lot of us 'chickens' to try to make memories that we would probably never attempt without your help.

"It may take a lot of encouragement to get us to try, but it's worth it if you can create the lasting impressions that you've created for my daughter and me."

It's true. It's what we strive for here at Adventure Cycling. With your financial assistance, we work hard so you have the tools to travel by bicycle. Or in some cases, chase the chickens onto their bikes.

Come on all you chickens -- get pedaling!

in this photo, Mike Freed and his daughter Caroline stand in front of Niagara Falls
photo courtesy of Mike Freed

--

BICYCLING INSPIRATIONS is posted the first and third Friday of each month by Julie Emnett, associate development director, and examines stories that illustrate why and how cyclists support our programs. Learn how you can support Adventure Cycling.