February 01, 2024 | FEATURES | By Nicky Booth
It was 5 a.m. in Erie, PA, and I found myself waking up on an air mattress in a church gym, wondering whether I had bitten off more than I could chew. The exhaustion from the previous day’s 80-mile ride in muggy heat lingered, and the idea of repeating the feat over again seemed daunting.
Yet, three weeks later, I stood in Portland, ME, having conquered nearly 1000 miles through the Fuller Center Bike Adventure. This transformative experience, riding for a cause—that which dealt with poverty housing and repairs — opened my eyes to the immense impact one can have on the world around them. Now, with the sun rising on a new journey, I find myself gearing up for an even more ambitious undertaking.
Back in July 2022, I became part of the Fuller Center Bike Adventure — an organization that transcends the “typical” cycling excursion. What’s the goal? To traverse great distances, not just for the thrill of personal achievement, but to raise awareness and funds for poverty housing and repairs. The Fuller Center for Housing, akin to Habitat for Humanity but with a focus on rural communities, became the focal point of our efforts. During this remarkable journey, I pedaled my way from Erie to Portland, contributing $1,500 to the noble cause.
This summer, as I contemplated another cycling endeavor, my initial plan was to tackle a segment of the cross-country trip, echoing my previous experience. However, a simple suggestion from a friend changed the game: “Why don’t you do the whole thing?” he said. And just like that, my decision was made.
Fresh out of college and realizing the rarity of such an opportunity, I committed to the monumental cross-country trip — from Seattle, WA, to Washington D.C. Spanning 5,000 miles and cutting through 13 states, this journey is much more than a personal challenge; it’s an unwavering commitment to address poverty and the housing crisis in the heartland of America.
My goal is twofold: to complete a personal challenge that stretches my physical and mental limits, and to raise a minimum of $5,600 to support the Fuller Center’s mission.
The Fuller Center’s Mission— a 501(c)(3) ecumenical Christian organization—is dedicated to providing decent homes for all. Founded by Millard and Linda Fuller, who generously gave away their fortune in 1969, the Fuller Center operates on the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to live in a suitable home. Since its founding in 2005, the organization has built and repaired over 7,000 homes, impacting the lives of 25,000 people across 100 countries.
When you contribute to the Fuller Center, your donation is a direct investment in their mission. A remarkable 94% of the funds go directly to program expenses, ensuring that your support has a meaningful impact on the ground. With only 6% allocated to administrative and fundraising costs, the Fuller Center stands out for its commitment to maximizing the value of every donation.
The Fuller Center Bike Adventure not only relies on financial contributions but also its volunteers media interns, and riders. Beyond joining the adventure, encouragement and prayers for health, safety, and a cohesive team are highly pivotal to the success of the organization. This is more than a bike trip: it’s a team event where your involvement becomes an integral part of the cause.
Embarking on the Fuller Center Bike Adventure again provides a unique opportunity to discover the diverse landscapes of America. From the lush rivers and cherry orchards of Washington State to the vast beauty of “Big Sky Country” in western Montana, our journey encompasses the natural wonders of northern Utah and southern Wyoming, including the stunning Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Cycling through the Rockies, we visit Rocky Mountain National Park, cross the nation’s Great Plains and Breadbasket, and traverse the mighty Mississippi River. Along the way, we engage in seven impactful build days, contributing directly to projects from Illinois to Virginia, with a focus on four build days in three weeks.
The adventure concludes with scenic rides on the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park before reaching our destination, Washington D.C.
Another driving force behind this bike trip is the tangible impact we make. I vividly recall a build day where a man with ALS hardly had any access to the outside due to his condition. In just one day, our team came together to build an entire porch at his house, sparking a profound sense of purpose within me. This firsthand experience fuels my commitment to continue fundraising for this cause and supporting The Fuller Center for Housing.
Our nights are spent in churches, on air mattresses, where the sense of community becomes palpable. We share stories, laughter and a common purpose under the same roof. The simplicity of our accommodations becomes a powerful reminder of the shared commitment to a cause larger than ourselves.
Supported by a van and trailer, we navigate the journey with ease. These vehicles store our food, gear, and essentials, ensuring that we can focus on the road ahead. It’s a logistical dance that keeps us fueled, motivated and connected as we pedal through the heartland of America.
Within the hum of wheels and rhythmic pedal strokes lies a form of travel that defies the rush of modern exploration. Cycling has become a medium through which I immerse myself in the landscapes, allowing for a gradual unveiling of the diverse regions we traverse. The unhurried pace encourages a deeper connection with the surroundings. As the scenery unfolds, each pedal becomes a moment of meditation, providing a space for reflection and introspection. It’s not just a journey from point A to B; it’s an intentional and mindful progression through the heartland of America.
Beyond the personal challenge and meditative aspects, cycling represents a sustainable approach to exploration. Choosing two wheels over four aligns with the Fuller Center’s commitment to positive change through responsible actions. This eco-friendly mode of travel isn’t just about reducing our carbon footprint; it’s a statement on how every choice, even the way we traverse our country, can contribute to a more sustainable future. It’s a small but deliberate step towards minimizing our impact and embracing a conscious approach to the way we experience the vast tapestry of America.
As we pedal through the heartland of America, our group of 10-25 riders becomes a moving spectacle, drawing attention to the cause. Riding in close-knit formations, we create a visible presence that sparks conversations and prompts inquiries. Each mile covered is not just a personal achievement but a statement, a proclamation that resonates with those who witness our journey. Through the act of cycling together, we amplify the mission of The Fuller Center, fostering awareness and support in the communities we traverse.
As the sun sets in the west and rises in the east, my wheels turn in unison with a purpose greater than the miles I cover. This summer, I invite you to be a part of this journey — whether through following my progress, sharing the mission, or contributing to the cause. Together, let’s pedal for a purpose, transcending the limits of the road to make a lasting impact on poverty and housing crises in the heartland of America.