Christian Elder Memorial 900 to support Kids 'n Kinship

Every day marks a new beginning. Today is no different. The Christian Elder Memorial 900-mile bike ride sets off today, kicking off a cross-country bike ride to raise awareness and funds for Kids 'n Kinship, a mentoring organization in the south metro of the Twin Cities! Check out the Riders' Bios and be sure to get updates from the 2011 Road Diary as the riders log their daily travels and travails. Then, you can help thank them and recognize their efforts on Saturday, June 11 at the CEM Welcome Back Celebration at Merchants Bank! Come along for any part of this incredible ride - today's the day!

2011 Christian Elder Memorial 900 Charity Ride for Kids 'n Kinship Begins May 26th

Last year the 900-mile Christian Elder Memorial 900 bicycle ride raised over $26,000 for Kids ‘n Kinship, a local non-profit organization that matches kids ages 5-16 with volunteer mentors.

“Children are such a valuable asset for our future. During hard economic times, it’s critical that we don’t lose sight of how important causes such as this are,” says Elder. All donations go straight to Kids ‘n Kinship, serving children in Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Farmington, Lakeville and Rosemount for 38 years. Currently, 68 youth are on the organization’s waiting list for mentors.

In addition to Elder, this year’s riders are:

• Dennis Hill, Bloomington, MN (fifth year)
• Kathy Kelly, Chaska, MN (second year)
• Bob Benda, Ft. Worth, TX (third year)
• Jay Saterbak, Prior Lake, MN (forth year)

Elder, who has mentored 17-year-old Dante for seven years, says “You don’t need a lot of experience to have a significant impact on a young person’s life.” It is this impact that fuels Elder’s passion for the bike riding fundraiser, which is named in memory of John and wife Sherry’s son who died unexpectedly in 2007. “It’s amazing what a mentor can do in a young person’s life and, in turn, what the young person can do for you.”

At age 64, Elder hopes to continue riding for many more years but adds, “I like to think that we’ve reached a point where this ride will survive me and will continue to benefit Kids ‘n Kinship far into the future.”