Bike ride will benefit DuPage PADS
Each weekend thousands of people take to the streets of our communities, walking and running - and riding - to raise money for charities. Every one of them has found a cause to believe in, a bit of hope through helping. And every one of them has a reason for being there.
Today, Bob Bostrom tells us about the Carmen DiGiovine Memorial Ride, a century bicycle ride starting Sunday in Naperville to benefit DuPage Public Action to Deliver Shelter. The ride is sponsored by the Naperville Sunrise Rotary Club; Bostrom is a longtime Rotarian and a founder of the ride.
Q. What inspires you to participate?
A. For the past 12 years, the Naperville Sunrise Rotary has been organizing a bike ride for charity, a bike ride through the countryside with the purpose of raising funds for charity. On Sunday, we will have our 13th such bike ride and, barring bad weather, we look forward to a record number of riders.
Q. The event is called the Carmen DiGiovine Memorial Ride. Who was he?
A. Carmen DiGiovine, a charter member of the Naperville Sunrise Rotary Club, passed away two years ago and we dedicated this annual ride to Carmen to keep his memory alive. Why, you may ask. Because Carmen was a leader in our community, both in business and with Sunrise Rotary. Carmen supported this charity event from its inception. A friend and colleague, Carmen is to be remembered for his service above self.
Q. Proceeds from the event will go to support DuPage Public Action to Deliver Shelter and its services for the homeless. Why PADS?
A. DuPage PADS is a wonderful organization that the Sunrise Rotary has supported for more than seven years. Its goal is to end homelessness in DuPage County. And the Sunrise Rotary's goal is to be a part of the solution.
Q. How have you been involved with the ride in previous years? What's the experience like?
A. I have been participating in or helping with the organization of the bike ride from the beginning. Along with Steve Essig, Mary Ann Junkrovski, Cathy Goulet, Bonnie Schumpp and Rich Cullen, we have created a fun experience for anyone wishing to take a pleasant, relaxing bike ride in the country and at the same time help others in need.
Q. How can readers donate?
A. If anybody would like to ride in the event, become an event sponsor or just make a donation, you can go to our Web site at napervillesunrise.com/Ride.