Milwaukee, WI – Outreach for Hope, a partner ministry of the Greater Milwaukee Synod, ELCA, has launched the Outreach for Hope 2020 Ride/Run/Walk as a virtual event.

For the past 12 years, the organization has hosted its annual Family Bike Ride as an in-person fellowship and fundraising event that has raised over $950,000 for ministries assisting people living in low-income urban neighborhoods throughout Southeast Wisconsin.

“Outreach for Hope is proud to announce a change in event format to keep our valued participants safe,” said Interim Executive Director Michael Groh. “We are committed to providing individuals, families, and congregations with opportunities to learn about our ministry partners, and to work together to raise funds for those in need.”

The all-virtual event will invite registered bikers, runners and walkers to remotely participate in 25 fitness and fundraising challenges in honor of Outreach for Hope’s 25th anniversary. The organization hopes to register at least 625 participants, log 25,000 miles, and raise $150,000 by the end of the event on September 30.

As part of the new format, participants will have access to a blog with helpful resources and a digital mileage tracker. Also new this year is a Facebook Group for participants to share their progress and photos as a way to connect even while physically distanced.

“So much has changed in recent months due to the global pandemic, that the fact that the annual bike ride needs to be done differently should come as no surprise,” reflected Greater Milwaukee Synod Bishop Paul Erickson. “One thing that hasn’t changed, however, is Outreach for Hope’s commitment to working with and walking with people who are living with the challenges associated with poverty. In fact, the challenges of recent weeks and months have demonstrated just how vital this work is, and how important these ministry partners are to the health and wellbeing of the communities they serve.”

Those interested in participating are encouraged to visit OFHbikeride.com for more information and a link to the online registration platform.

For more information, contact Interim Director Michael Groh at 414-807-0750 or mike@outreachforhope.org.

ABOUT US: Over the past 25 years, Outreach for Hope has granted more than $4.4 million to ministries serving urban neighborhoods in southeast Wisconsin. Grants are funded by donations from generous individuals, organizations, and congregations. In an average week, Outreach for Hope ministry partners serve 2,132 congregants, host 5,754 community members for non-worship purposes, and feed over 5,000 people in Southeastern Wisconsin.

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