A-LISTS community by john bilow
Pedal AIDS Services Foundation (ASF) has been serving
the needs of Orange County since 1985, when it was founded by a small group of volunteers who saw the need for an organization that would address the needs of people affected by HIV/AIDS, but who had nowhere else to turn. Since then, ASF has grown into the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit AIDS service orga- nization in Orange County, helping more than 1,600 people annually. Last year’s inaugural Orange County Ride for AIDS
(OCRA), raised just under $100,000 according to ASF Director of Events Chris Bragg. This year they believe that they can double that amount, their goal is to raise $200,000 in corporate, team and individual sponsor- ships. The money raised goes to their many programs including the food pantry, counseling, health services and more. To participate in the ride, riders must simply raise $250
or more in sponsorships. Since this is a fundraiser for a good cause and not a race, the “yellow jersey” goes to the participants who raise the most money and not to the fastest rider. This year OCRA is encouraging participants to form
teams, because they are a great way to promote par- ticipation and raise enthusiasm for the event. Teams are encouraged to come up with creative names and cos- tumes. Cover up with bandages and be the “Band-Aids” team, or carry gold shovels, wear gold outfits and be team “Gold Diggers.” Creativity is encouraged, nobody wants to make a charity fashion faux pas and show up as one of a hundred Lady Gaga-themed groups, so be sure
YOURSELF FOR A GOOD CAUSE You’ve walked for AIDS and you’ve dined out for AIDS, now is your chance to hop on your
bike and ride for the cause on Saturday, October 15, 2011 during the second annual Orange County Ride for AIDS, a 100-mile trek through the most scenic parts of Orange County. The event takes place at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo and benefits AIDS Services Founda- tion of Orange County.
to bring your A-game. The ride is perfect for riders of all athletic levels, and
not just future Tour de France hopefuls. “We have two routes available,” said Bragg. “One of them is a ‘full cen- tury’ which is 100 miles. We also have a ‘metric century’ at 62 miles.” Participants who need work done on their bikes, or even need a brand new bike, to prepare for the event, can receive a discount on parts and labor from Ir- vine Bicycles. Additionally, the OCRA has support teams driving the route to help riders with flat tires and other equipment malfunctions or to give riders a lift back to the start if they need or simply want one. Check in time for participants begins at 5:30 a.m.,
with opening ceremonies at 7 a.m., and riders begin peddling at 7:30 a.m. The route is a circuit and ends back at the starting point at Saddleback College. As riders get in they will have time to relax and unwind before the closing ceremonies at 5:30 p.m. “We have massage therapists who will be on hand to work on the riders who may be a little sore,” said Bragg. “We will also have a DJ in case riders still have their legs on them and want to do some dancing, and we will have food and some other fun activities for the riders.” This is a great way to give back to the community while getting in shape, having fun and enjoying the beautiful weather and camaraderie. So pump up those bike tires, get some friends to sponsor you, or even ride with you as a team, and pedal yourself for a good cause. To register for the ride, or to learn more about the OCRA, visit the event website at
ocrideforaids.com or call them at 949-809-5700.
WHY DO WE DO IT?
Obviously, when participating in events like the Ride For AIDS, you’re not really riding in support for AIDS. What you’re riding for is HIV/AIDS services for the people in our com- munity. AIDS Services Foundation of Orange County uses the money raised by events like the Ride for AIDS to support vital programs.
Each year, ASF helps more than 1,600 men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Orange County. Services include food, transportation, housing, case management, emergency financial assistance, children and family programs, Latino outreach programs, mental health counseling, support groups, HIV testing, and an extensive array of HIV prevention and education programs.
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RAGE monthly | SEPTEMBER 2011
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