Hello Friends,

I’m happy to report that participating in the Registers Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) was so enjoyable last year, that I’m back for another year.  How can you miss with miles of beautiful corn fields and temperature and humidity in the 90s.  Of course I’m jesting, the event is really a week long celebration of cycling, with over 20,000 participants and communities along the way that are really excited to see you arrive. This year’s ride starts July 20th and ends 7 days later on July 26th.  The route is a short 406 miles across the northern part of the state, including a brief venture into Minnesota.  Once again I’ll be peddling with my teammates from Samaritan Cycling! We are a community of individuals that love to get outdoors, cycle, and experience the beauty of Colorado and other states like Iowa. Beyond cycling, we share the common mission to support the Samaritan House Homeless Shelters located along the front range in northern Colorado. 

Homelessness is a never ending and complex problem in our society.  As I learn more about homelessness, I’ve come to understand there is no easy answer or one single solution.  Samaritan House is just one of the many organizations that offer loving unquestioning support for those in need.   It is more than a shelter, offering education and programs that help get its members back into society through work placement and housing.  In addition, the Samaritan House operates the largest women’s shelter in Denver. 

My goal is to raise $1500 in support of the Samaritan House Homeless Shelter. Your kind donation will help break the cycle of homelessness by funding shelters, providing food, clothing, life skill classes, and aiding support groups.

 I truly appreciate your financial support! Donate what you can. Any amount helps!

Bill Clifford