Charities

Several people ask, "Why so many charities?"  When I created Why I Ride, I had one vision in mind; helping people in need.  I have been fortunate in my life to be loved by an incredible family and although I might complain sometimes, I am soon reminded that I have never done without.  After graduating from Western Carolina University in 2005, I began to witness the large gaps in our society.  Why, in the wealthiest nation on Earth, do some people have a high standard of living when others can’t even afford health care or food for their families? 

Although I could not even begin to answer this question, I realized I could at least work to narrow the gap by helping to share the dollars from those who have with those who don’t have.  I realized that those who don’t have includes a much bigger population than just individuals here in the United States.  Millions of other people in the world, each with a nearly identical beating heart, do without the basic necessities that you and I take for granted. 

I began researching what charities would be best to help these people in need.  I spent hours reading about charities, reviewing their annual reports, and checking their program efficiency (the percentage of each dollar donated that actually goes towards programs).  I came up with five charities total, all providing different kinds of aid.  The one thing they all have in common is their mission to help people/places in need.  I also realized that people wanted to have options when giving. 

Potential donors to Why I Ride should be able to choose an area that interests them, not just the one area that I believe will help the most people.  So I invite you to explore each of the charities further and see for yourself which charity best deserves your help.  Rest assured that each of these charities is top-rated in their charitable category and that they will do an excellent job at spreading your donation to those individuals and places that need the most help.  DONATE NOW

World Hunger – Heifer International

A non-profit organization whose goal is to help bring an end to world hunger and poverty through self-reliance and sustainability. 

Environmental – The Conservation Fund

The nation's foremost environmental nonprofit organization, dedicated to protecting America's landscapes and waterways.

Domestic Education – Teach For America

A national organization that focuses on bridging the educational gaps in many communities across the United States.

World Humanitarian - UMCOR

As the humanitarian aid agency of the United Methodist Church, UMCOR delivers proactive relief to people in need all over the world, regardless of religious or political viewpoint.

My Hometown Charity – United Fund of Jackson County, NC

A grassroots effort to raise funds for over 30 nonprofit organizations (ranging from Fire/Rescue squads to Little League teams) that maintain the high quality of life enjoyed by Jackson County residents and visitors alike.