Cyclists to bike the Grand Parkway for charity

THE WOODLANDS, Texas — The Grand Parkway Ride will give cyclists an opportunity to bike a soon-to-open stretch of State Highway 99 (The Grand Parkway) for charity on the morning of Saturday, March 19.

A unique partnership that includes the Texas Department of Transportation, Zachry-Odebrecht Parkway Builders, the United Methodist Church, and the YMCA will offer riders the chance to cycle various distances of The Grand Parkway between where it intersects Interstate 59 and Interstate 45 with proceeds going to battle human trafficking through the YMCA International Services Trafficked Persons Assistance Program.

“The greatest way for us to fight injustice is to commit to caring for our neighbors, and The Grand Parkway is opening up the doors between our neighborhoods,” says Rev. Susan Kent, Pastor of Local Missions and Women’s Ministry at The Woodlands United Methodist Church, which will host the ride's packet pick-up on March 17 – 18. "We are very excited to be part of an event that brings the church and the community together to cycle for charity. Not only will we band together, building a closer community, but we will also help raise awareness and support the fight against human trafficking.”

The basic stretch between Interstate 59 and Interstate 45 is 12.5 miles, with the loop from start to finish coming in at 25 miles. Cyclists will have distance options of 15, 25, 50 and 75 miles. Riders between the ages of 14 and 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and no one under 14 can participate.

The beneficiary of a majority of the ride’s tax-deductible $50 entry fee, the YMCA International Services Trafficked Persons Assistance Program identifies and assists victims of human trafficking, regardless of legal status. The program offers direct client services that enable survivors to overcome their past and pursue bright futures. Through intensive case management, the Trafficked Persons Assistance Program aims to provide holistic services that foster independence, security, and success. The Y raises awareness of human trafficking through outreach and education.

Registration to ride or volunteer opens Monday, February 29 at 10:00 a.m.

For details on the ride or to register, visit thegrandparkwayride.com.