Profile: Rodman Ride for Kids

They ride for mentoring programs. They ride for after-school programs. They ride to raise money for organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dorchester. Mary Kinsella, vice president of Early Childhood Education at the Boys and Girls Clubs, knows how important this support is. Mary is still invigorated by her work, even after 20 years. “With so many people investing in the club through the Rodman Ride, I am inspired every day to do a better job,” she says.

Mary’s enthusiasm affects the kids. Recently one child said, “At the Club, I learned that it is important to do the right thing, even when no one is looking.” Another young person told Mary, “The people at the club have helped me open my eyes. I’ve learned that there is a great big world out there and I will be accepted as I am.” Realizations like this change kids forever, and because of support from the Rodman Ride, the doors to the club are wide open.

The beauty of the Rodman Ride as a fundraising model is it’s umbrella matching approach. The Ride covers the expenses for the event, which makes it possible for smaller agencies to take advantage of a major fundraiser without the costs associated with it. With more sponsors and donors than ever, 2008 was another record-breaking year. The event raised $6.3 million to benefit 25 child-related nonprofit agencies.

“This collaboration of organizations separates the Ride as a truly unique event. Rather than ‘competing’ for support, these agencies come together through the Ride to work toward a common goal—helping at-risk kids,” says Ride president Don Rodman. The Rodman Ride for Kids raises more than just money for organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs; it raises ambitions and spirits too.