United Action for Youth is working to spread word: you can still show your support during Sunday’s Ride 4 Youth without going out in the rain!
“Virtual riders” are welcome and encouraged for the 7th Annual Ride 4 Youth, says Mickey Hampton, development director for the youth nonprofit. “You can support the event tomorrow from the comfort of your own home,” she said. “And, you can register the actual day of the event.”
Ross Wilburn, former mayor of Iowa City, is among those who have joined the Ride 4 Youth for UAY in recent years.
United Action for Youth (UAY) holds its biking fundraiser every year, and the event is supposed to take place tomorrow, kicking off at 7 a.m. at the Coralville Public Library. With an 80 percent chance of thunderstorms tomorrow and the number of riders already a little lower than last year, Hampton is spreading word to potential donors to rise above the rain.
Virtual riders can pledge just $20 and be part of the surge to support UAY’s programs. Click here to find registration for not only Virtual Riders but also Superstar Riders, who commit to raise $250 for UAY through Crowdrise and qualify for a prize-packed raffle; and a Family Ride, for a group.
This page also offers the option to purchase a Ride 4 Youth T-shirt or fanny pack.
UAY is a pivotal mental health service provider in eastern Iowa because it is one of the few mental health service providers that accepts Medicaid, Hampton said.
Key initiatives your donations will help UAY provide throughout Johnson County and beyond include:
• the Neva Evans Young Parent Program Emergency Fund: this service helps new teen or young adult moms whose circumstances leave them unable to pay rent, a utility bill, or for food for their family.
• the annual PrideCon event for youth in February. This event draws youth from throughout Iowa for a day of art, networking, socializing, and education on issues relevant to LGBTQ youth. Last year, PrideCon drew its largest number of youth ever, 70. UAY hopes to continue expanding PrideCon in 2020.
• UAY’s transportation program for youths receiving counseling. While many youth are able to receive counseling, arranging rides or bus trips to those appointments can make it impossible for youth to receive the help they need, Hampton said.
For more information about all of UAY’s programs, see its website. Otherwise, consider registering for tomorrow’s Ride 4 Youth in person or as a “virtual rider” by clicking here.
“
