Saturday saw many individuals thundering down the road in an effort to raise dollars and awareness for the difficult journey that many face throughout their lives.
For the second year, the Kansas Sidewinders Motorcycle Club came together with Beacon for Hope Suicide Prevention for the Ride for Life Poker Run. The event saw motorcyclists start their journey at the Beacon for Hope offices at 1225 West Sixth in Emporia and make their way through Olpe, New Strawn, Waverly and Lebo before arriving back in Emporia at the Dark Horse Saloon.
The event was described as more than just a ride; it was a movement towards a better tomorrow for those who struggle with depression and suicide daily. Sidewinders MC Vice President Jason Munday spoke with KVOE News before the start of the ride and said that while not everyone may have personally battled suicide or depression in their lives, it is an issue that affects everyone in some way.
In addition to its work to provide services and education on suicide prevention, Beacon For Hope is also known for its efforts in breaking down stigma surrounding the topic. Munday noted that when it comes to the MC world, there is also a lot of stigma that surrounds it and those within it as well.
With that in mind, he found it fitting that the two entities have teamed up to help create greater knowledge and understanding for both.
Registration and fundraising totals from the ride are currently pending. The Ride For Life was just one of the events held this weekend involving Beacon For Hope, as the agency also hosted its annual Corky’s Cupboard car show Sunday afternoon at Messiah Lutheran Church.
For more information on Beacon For Hope and its services, please call 620-412-8335 or visit Hopelinks.org.
