Skip to content

Pedal for Portage raises $28,000 for teens

Since 2018, the event has raised more than $250,000 to help adolescents, ages 14 to 18 years by removing speed blocks on the pathway to wellness
Pedal for Portage Media Release Photo
Pedal for Portage celebrated its 5th annual event on Sept. 17.

NEWS RELEASE
PORTAGE ONTARIO
*************************
Finally back for an in person, group ride event, Pedal for Portage returned celebrating its 5th year. Since 2018, the event has raised more than $250,000 to help adolescents, ages 14 to 18 years by removing speed blocks on the pathway to wellness.

This year’s event was a hybrid – allowing participants to join the group ride on Saturday, Sept. 17 hosted at the Grand River Agricultural Society operating as the Grand River Raceway or to challenge themselves in their own communities during the week leading up to the group event.

“We are thrilled to see so many people continue to participate across Ontario in support of Portage,” said Ashley-Ann Maginnis, associate director, development at the Elora Centre. There are many riders participating as Free-Riders, raising funds and challenging themselves on their own route. Teams and individual riders cycled one of three routes yesterday– 20-kilometre, 45-kilometre or 60-kilometre – all while raising money for youth who benefit from the services Portage Ontario offers. “From the bottom of our hearts, we thank all riders, donors, volunteers, sponsors and supporters for your commitment to Pedal for Portage this year. It is so inspiring to feel the energy here and to be riding together after three years apart,” said Maginnis. “The funds raised will directly impact youth living with substance use disorder, and fuel the work of the incredible clinicians at the Elora Centre.”

Maginnis said that mix of race choices makes the event accessible to everyone as does the fact they are all fully supported. "What that really means is the routes are fully mapped out by volunteers. We have aid or support stations throughout the rides. Most importantly hydration and fuel for our riders on the curse, generously donated by the Grand River Agricultural Society. It is just a great supportive atmosphere."

The event also had a silent auction, featuring items from Royal Distributing, baskets from SAEDA Store, Mermaid in Elora, artwork donated by Local Pieces Gallery and many local gift cards.

Pedal for Portage is made possible thanks to the generosity of many participants, donors, and sponsors including: Rowbot.io, Pasture Butchery, Linton Pasture Pork, Nexans, Nick’s Quick Delivery, Elora Ski and Cycle, Barry Cullen Chevrolet, Artic Clear, Red Car Services, The Bicycle Tailor, Royal Distributing, Print Sponsor - Alpha Graphics and Signs and Media Sponsor – EloraFergusToday.

About Portage Ontario

In 1985, Portage opened Canada’s first residential substance abuse rehabilitation centre for adolescents in scenic Elora, Ontario. The treatment centre provides addiction treatment services specifically geared to the needs of adolescents, ages 14 to 18 years, including a mandatory school on-site for residents to obtain their high school credits, and up to 24 months of aftercare to assist with reintegration. Portage Ontario’s programs are free of charge and are certified by Accreditation Canada. Since opening its doors, the centre has treated more than 4000 youth. For more information, please visit www.Portage.ca/Ontario

*************************