Contributed by Cops for Kids
From fighting crime, to fundraising and training for a marathon of a bike ride — it’s all in a day’s work for Revelstoke RCMP Cst. Seanan Sharp.
Again this year, Sharp has joined the 2014 Thomas Alan Budd Foundation Cops for Kids Ride Team, and will leave Kelowna on Friday, Sept. 5 on a 10 day, 1,000 kilometre cycling journey across southeastern British Columbia.
The annual Cops for Kids Ride raises funds and awareness for children in medical, physical and traumatic crisis in our region, for the funding of medical equipment, therapies, travel to Children’s Hospital, learning & mobility aids. Since 2001, Cops for Kids has raised more than $2.7 million in support of local children.
During the 10 day ride, Cops for Kids riders will cycle into 18 different communities across southeastern B.C., where they will have the opportunity to meet many of the children who benefit from this event. Meeting these little ambassadors will remind each rider of the challenges they face each day, and it will keep them focused to help better the lives of these children.
“I’ve participated in this event in the past,” said Sharp. “The physical challenge doesn’t get any easier for us cycling all those miles, but our hard work means that the challenges get a little bit easier for the kids who need it most. The items we fund aren’t covered by extended health care benefits or government programs, so these kids need us to help them where we can.”
As a part of the 2014 Cops for Kids Ride, the team will be arriving at Cooper's in Revelstoke on Thursday, Sept. 11, at approximately 3:00pm, where they’ll be greeted by local dignitaries and their little ambassadors who receive funding from the annual fundraiser. Members of the public are encouraged to come meet with the team for a photo and cake, and to spend time with the Subway Commit to Fit truck that is joining the team on their journey this year promoting "random acts of fitness."
Cops for Kids provide assistance directly to children who need it most from our region. Due to the overwhelming number of grant requests, they are unable to meet the demands and have established a wait list of children needing essential medical equipment, specialized therapies, and medical travel. Cops for Kids has the unique opportunity to offer donors and sponsors the most efficient and effective way to make an immediate difference in the life of a child. They’re anticipating a funding shortfall this year, so donations are appreciated more than ever.
To follow the team along their journey or to make a donation please visit the website at www.copsforkids.org.