Five years ago, NorthCare Hospice, based near Kansas City, MO, announced plans to build a hospice house to better serve those with end-stage illness. The non-profit solicited fund-raising ideas and a massage therapist working for the company brought to the table a motorcycle ride.
"I came up with the idea of the ride since I've been on numerous charity rides in the past," said Natasha Rake, who is also the event organizer and now a six year employee of NorthCare. "I enjoy organizing these events."
In May 2010, the inaugural run featured 130 riders for a 90 mile ride through the back roads of Missouri's northland and helped raise $3,600. The hospice house opened in August 2010 in a wing of North Kansas City Hospital. The 16-bed facility specializes in short-term solutions for medical problems too serious or complex for home management.
The ride proved to be so successful NorthCare decided on an annual ride to continue its fund-raising needs. On Saturday, more than 150 riders are expected to take the same journey and help raise at least $4,000 in the 4th annual Ride for NorthCare Hospice. The event also includes a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle. Riders meet at 10 a.m. at Stables Grill, 627 West State Route 92, Kearney, MO. Kickstands at up at 12 p.m. and the cost is $25; $10 per passenger.
All proceeds directly benefit NorthCare Hospice and/or NorthCare Hospice House. "Money is used to provide care to patients who do not have insurance, medications, equipment and hospice services," Rake said.
For more information call 816-726-9114 or visit the Ride for NorthCare Hospice Facebook page.
Other Rides Scheduled this Weekend:
Ryan Trewin Memorial Poker Run May 11: The second annual ride in Clinton, OH raises money for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Bikers Against Breast Cancer May 11: Kickstands up in Pasadena, TX for their 5th annual ride and in Newark, NJ for their 8th annual ride.
Diaper Run May 11: Proceeds from this fifth annual run in Pahrump, NV benefit the First Choice Pregnancy Center.
Rose City Oregon 500 May 11: The Rose City Motorcycle Club hosts its 40th annual Rose City Oregon 500, a 500-mile "tour" through the state of Oregon.
Howling for the Hounds May 11: The Wolves Motorcycle Club in Tucson, AZ rolls out at 11 a.m. for the 6th annual ride that benefits the Southern Arizona Humane Society. Check out the Wolves MC website for more information.
Midland Motorcycle Swap Meet May 11: The 33rd annual swap meet in Midland, MI features a bike and classic car show. See their Facebook page for map and information. Spring Dart Run May 11: This ride sponsored by the VFW District 5 in Colorado Springs, CO benefits veteran charities.