As Father’s Day approaches, I've been thinking of my dad a lot. He's been gone two years now, while it often seems like many more, sometimes it feels like he'll pick up the phone when I call.

On Saturday, June 21, I’ll be taking part in Light the Night: Y Ride for Youth — a sunset bike ride in support of the YMCA’s Second Stage Housing Program, which provides safe housing and vital support for youth aged 16–24 who are facing crisis or homelessness.

I’m riding in memory of my dad, Brian Long. We had a complicated relationship, and like many people, my memories of him are layered. But I loved him deeply. He was stubborn, he did his own thing, and he didn’t always say much — but he believed in standing up for people who didn’t have anyone in their corner. That’s something I carry with me.

There’s something symbolic about a nighttime ride — a trail of lights moving forward through the dark. It feels like the right way to honour him: not with perfection, but with purpose, with movement, and with light.

If you’re able, please consider making a donation. Every dollar helps shine a light on youth homelessness and brings hope to someone who needs it most.