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Rev up the Harley for annual ride to benefit Pioneer Center

Submitted by Pioneer Center for Human Services

Register now for the “Pioneer,” the fifth annual motorcycle ride taking place Saturday, Aug. 13. All proceeds from the event will benefit the programs of Pioneer Center for Human Services, McHenry County’s largest social service agency.

Annually, Pioneer Center delivers direct services to more than 2,500 individuals through programs such as McHenry County PADS, Autism Services, Youth Service Bureau, traumatic brain injury, mental health, VOICE Sexual Assault Services and developmental disabilities.

The event started five years ago with five motorcycles participating. Last year, more than 50 bikes joined in. Some riders have personal ties to Pioneer Center, while others just want to enjoy the ride through the Wisconsin countryside while donating to a good cause.

This year, the Moose Lodge in McHenry has offered its parking lot as a starting off spot and will be donating coffee and doughnuts to all riders. Bottled water will be given to riders by clients from one of Pioneer Center’s group homes.

“I’m so pleased that the event has grown each year. Most of the five original riders continue to participate, with new people joining each year,” said Tracy Champion, event coordinator and founder of the motorcycle ride.

“Riders have such camaraderie and enjoy the day. Last year was lucky for one particular rider who ended up winning $100 in the 50/50 raffle. We hope to get more riders this year and encourage anyone to join us. Registration is available the day of the ride or online at pioneercenter.org.”The ride will start at Moose Lodge 691, 3535 Richmond Road, Route 31, in Johnsburg. Coffee and doughnuts will be provided for participants. On-site registration begins at 9 a.m., with the first bike out at 10 a.m. The cost is $25 per rider or $30 with a passenger.Participants will enjoy drinks and a 50/50 raffle at the event#146;s first stop at Knuckleheads in Eagle, Wis. Riders will then continue on to Hemingways in Lake Geneva, Wis. for lunch. Participants must purchase their own lunch, a 50/50 raffle and door prizes.Riders are encouraged to collect pledges for their participation from friends and family members to help provide additional funding for the programs of Pioneer Center. More than 91 cents of every dollar raised will go directly to the programming.To learn more about the event or to register, visit www.pioneercenter.org or call Tracy Champion at (815) 759-7112.