From Fog to Celebration

In a Fog- That's how I felt during most of the preparations for 60 for Hope. My idea was not well formulated with "time tested strategies" for reaching the goals. It was more like a middle-of-the-night dabbling. But now I know fog as a friend! On the morning of the ride, fog was a cooling friend that added sparkle to my skin and hope for a comfortable ride day.

Elements of fog surrounded the ride goals of 60 riders and the fundraising traget of $60,000. This fog lifted to reveal incredible gifts - 65 riders/joggers plus 4 individuals who raised funds but due to unexpected happening were not able participate in the ride.

The most dense fog covered the $60,000! Was it insane to set such a goal in this economic climate? Now in the brightest of sunlight, I proclaim that we not only reached, but surpassed this goal - $62,124 has been raised to date!! Light is beaming into the lives of homeless single moms and their children because of this record support from a vast community! We had an incredible number of donors- at least 525 individuals from 16 states and 2 other counties!

Wow! Beyond my wildest dreams, indeed!

With the fog of planning and training for this event now lifted I discovered many wonderful, unexpected outcomes to celebrate:


1. Affirmations from across the country to my mother for her courage and dedication as a single parent. There were many heart warming notes that accompanied donations in her honor.


2. An enthusiastic cheer from Bridge of Hope moms when the 60 for Hope fundraising results were announced at a Bridge of Hope night!

3. One-third of the $62,124 was given by people who were first-time donors to Bridge of Hope's minitry! I am blessed by this amazing support from new donors who have generously taken Bridge of Hope's minitry to single mothers and their children to heart.


4. The fun of linking two women as 60 for Hope riding partners and learning that they continue to ride together.

5. Setting an all-time high for fundraising and rider participation as a charity in Dream Ride Lancaster. We raised more than triple the amount of any previous record.

6. Ongoing interest in this ride from news publications and people I pass on the street- the word of this ride has definitely spread far and wide!

7. Friends who drove the distance to ride with me - from Indiana, Virginia, Maryland!

Mother and I celebrate with much joy the way a whole community came together and surrounded our dream with incredible affirmation and generosity! We are filled with much hope for other single mothers and their children - and know the fog is lifting to reveal the kingdom of God at work here on earth!! Thank You! Thank You!