Ride for Refuge with Cindy Klassen on October 4
Are you a sports fanatic? Do you support the work of MCC? If you answered “Yes!” to one of these questions, then circle October 4 on your calendar as one of the most anticipated days of the fall! The bike-a-thon known as the Ride for Refuge has become an annual fall fundraiser for MCC Ontario, raising thousands of dollars to support the work of our six program areas: People in Poverty, Refugee Resettlement, Aboriginal Neighbours, Material Resources, Low German Newcomers and Restorative Justice!
This year, the Ride for Refuge will be even more exciting since Cindy Klassen, Canadian speed skater, four-time world champion, six-time Olympic medallist and Canada’s most decorated Olympic athlete in history, will participate in the Waterloo RIDE as a member of “Team MCC!” A world-class athlete with roots in the Mennonite faith, Cindy seeks to support the work of MCC in a variety of ways. Riders in support of MCCO at the Waterloo location will have exclusive VIP access to meet Cindy, talk with her, get a photo and even ride alongside her! Cindy will also share words of faith and encouragement during the opening ceremonies. The Waterloo location organizers anticipate around 1,200 riders.
Pastor Michael VandenEnden at Grantham Mennonite Brethren Church in St. Catharines and his family are friends with Cindy which led him to wonder if she might be willing to come to Ontario to help promote the RIDE on behalf of MCC. Michael felt the participation and support of such a high-profile Canadian athlete would provide great exposure to the work of MCC in Ontario. Michael’s passion for MCC is matched by Cindy who has joyfully agreed to make the trip to Ontario for the event even in the midst of a busy university schedule. You won’t want to miss this incredible opportunity to hear Cindy’s testimony of faith and passion for the work of MCC!
If you aren’t able to ride in Waterloo, but are riding in another location, know that your huffs and puffs will be echoed by Cindy and 350 other riders throughout Ontario, who choose to make a difference in the lives of people, by supporting MCC Ontario Programs! With your support, together we can live like champions, sharing God’s love and compassion for all in the name of Christ!
More info at rideforrefuge.org/partner/mcco.
Greg Yantzi is MCC Ontario's Ontario program fundraiser. Greg can be found at our Kitchener office 519-745-8458 or at gregy@mennonitecc.on.ca.