EAST BRUNSWICK – Participants in the fourth annual Raritan Valley YMCA Spin-a-Thon combined efforts to log thousands of biking miles in support of the Y’s Strong Kids Campaign.
The entire ride took place via stationary bike inside the YMCA on Feb. 11, exceeding its goal of raising $5,000 for the campaign.
Some riders biked for three full hours, and some combined as teams to trade off on a single bike to keep it spinning throughout the event, according to information provided by the Y.
“The Spin-a-Thon is really a lot of fun, and for a good cause,” said Amanda Fox, the event organizer. “We really are a team on this. There’s definitely a sense of community around participating.”
Raritan Valley YMCA holds spin classes regularly as part of its group exercise schedule.
Fundraising dollars will go to benefit the Strong Kids Campaign, which brings YMCA memberships and programs to kids and families who can’t otherwise afford them. The campaign gets kids involved in many different programs, including child care, camps, sports, and swim lessons, and ensures that members of the community will not be turned away because of an inability to pay.
“This is about more than just teaching kids a certain skill or letting them have fun,” said YMCA Executive Director Gina Stravic. “It’s about giving them the experiences they need to be become confident, responsible adults.”
Each participant was asked to raise at least $100 in pledges, although many raised more than that. Just two individual riders raising the minimum amount is enough to pay for one week of summer camp for a needy child, according to the statement.
To become a become a donor to the Raritan Valley Y Strong Kids Campaign, or to get more information about the Y’s programs, visit raritanvalleyymca.org or call Karen Robson at 732-257-4114.
