Lake Nona, FL – Riding with Santa

Saturday morning December 2, 2018, two TeamOne members (Catherine & Z) joined other cyclists for the Riding with Santa charity event. Waking up to a 44-degree morning is exhilarating, by the time the ride started at 8 a.m. the temperature was a cool 58-degrees with the winds a 10 mph from the south. A brisk morning ride into the wind has a way of waking up your soul!

The purpose of this event is to collect new toys. Thus, one of the most important “actions” of participation is in the new toy which is delivered on registration day.

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One thing is clear though, the toy which riders bring will be the one that catches their attention and touches their heart. That’s the toy riders will bring to register on ride day.

But, the toy is just the pretext. This project consists of three (3) phases. Here’s the breakdown:

Riding with Santa: Is a massive toy collection effort made possible with this cycling event. Here is where the party begins since not only is it a ride, but upon the riders return to the starting point they can enjoy feasting on typical Puerto Rican food, music and more …
Santa’s Workshop: Here is where the donated toys get segregated by the volunteers and assign to the communities and/or families that these toys get delivered to.
Act of Random Kindness: This is where the magic happens, on Xmas day from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, the volunteers go to deliver the toys to the communities/families selected. Whether it’s a big community gathering or what is called “door to door” impact, volunteers do this within the time frame. But, volunteers don’t only deliver a toy, they also deliver a message to that child. The message is simple: “We don’t ask for anything in return, all we do ask is that if you feel a strong sense to help someone, you do so as we are doing with you”.

Note: If you would like to take part of any of these phases other than the cycling event, please communicate via email: ridingwithsanta@gmail.com

Last but not least, the American Diabetes Association of Orlando has teamed up with this cause and is helping in a big way. In appreciation for their support, a portion of the proceeds of this event will be donated to the A.D.A. to help them continue their mission and vision. A win any way you slice it!