Bridges Healthcare will host its 34th annual Folks on Spokes & Step Forward Ride +Walk for mental health on Sunday, Sept. 14 at 8 a.m. at Fowler Field in downtown Milford.
This annual event, one of the longest running charity rides in the state, attracts hundreds of cyclists and walkers who participate to raise funds and awareness for mental health and addiction recovery services.
“Since this event began in 1991, the greater Milford community has been riding and now walking to support Bridges Healthcare’s vital programs for mental health and substance use disorders. We appreciate the strong bonds we have created with our clients, supporters and event sponsors and look forward to remaining your local connection to health,” said Jennifer Fiorillo, Bridges CEO and president.
Event participants can choose from 5-, 10-, 20- or 40-mile cycling routes or take part in a 5K walk. All are along the Connecticut shoreline. Attendees can ride or walk individually or as a team. Fundraising is encouraged and free registration is offered to each person who commits to raising $100 by Sept. 14.
In addition to the ride and walk, the event features a remembrance ceremony to honor lives lost to suicide, addiction and overdose or honor those who are still alive on their own journeys. There will be music, kids’ activities, a free lunch and t-shirt for all registered participants. Community resource tables and opportunities to connect with local mental health advocates will also be available.
Pre-event registration fees are $50 per cyclist, $35 per walker and $15 for youth under 18. Children 6 and under are free. Registration on the day of the event is $60 per cyclist and $40 per walker.
The goal is to raise $45,000 which will help Bridges programs. According to Bridges, the organization reached nearly 9,000 individuals through outpatient, in-home, community outreach and coordinated prevention efforts last year.
To register, sponsor, volunteer or learn more, visit bit.ly/BridgesRideWalk2025.