Fueled by Perseverance, Determination, and the Power of pushing through obstacles – a race for Second Stages

My Motivation

In Canada, 6,000 young people experience homelessness every night. Poverty, abuse, mental health and systemic barriers are some of the reasons why young people land on the streets. And it’s difficult for them to find support — there is often nowhere to turn.

The YMCA Ottawa’s Second Stage Housing Program for Youth is making a dent in these alarming statistics, providing safe, supportive housing for youth aged 16-24 who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or unable to live at home.

At the YMCA, young people don’t just get a roof over their head, but a real chance at a brighter future. This program opens the door to safety, healing, and opportunity.

Working at the YMCA, I have the opportunity to know these young people and see the impact of the program on their lives every day.

The Challenge

It costs $25,000 a year for the YMCA to house just one youth.

That’s why, this summer — from June 30 through July 6 — I will take on the BC Bike Race, a grueling, seven-day mountain biking challenge that will push my endurance, skill, and resilience to its limits. Over the course of a week, I’ll ride nearly 275 kilometers of rugged trails, tackling relentless climbs, steep descents, and unpredictable terrain.

This is more than just a race for me — It’s a test of perseverance, determination, and the power of pushing through obstacles—just like the young people at the YMCA. Every kilometre I ride is a reminder that challenges, no matter how daunting, can be overcome with the right support.

Help me raise $90 for every kilometre I ride, which will fund one full year of care for a homeless youth in Ottawa.

I invite you to sponsor a kilometre of the race to change the game for a young person in Ottawa.

With your support, we can extend stays for those who need more time, expand access to trauma-informed care, and ensure every room is a place of comfort, dignity, and belonging.

This ride is about more than just the distance — it’s about creating a future where no youth is left behind.

My own Second Stage

In 2021, my life changed forever. A mountain biking accident led to medical tests that uncovered a brain vascular malformation—a serious condition with risks of bleeding and seizures. Surgery wasn’t an option, but one thing became painfully clear: I couldn’t take time, health, or purpose for granted. With a young family depending on me, the stakes became even higher.

Even with uncertainty ahead, I knew I couldn’t give up on my goal of competing in challenging mountain bike races. As I trained, I realized that my own physical and mental battles were nothing compared to what many of the young people we support at the YMCA face daily. Like me, they don’t get to choose their challenges—but they do deserve the chance to overcome them.

Just as I refuse to let my diagnosis define me, the YMCA’s Second Stage program helps these youth reclaim their futures. This ride isn’t just about endurance—it’s about resilience, second chances, and proving that no one has to face their toughest battles alone.

Be Part of the Change

This isn’t just my ride — it’s our ride. It’s a chance to show that, together, we can make a real difference for young people who need us most.

If we raise $90 for every kilometre, we could fund one full year of care for a homeless youth in Ottawa.

Here’s how you can help:

Donate — Every dollar goes directly to providing safe housing and support for youth in need.

Share — Help spread the word so more people can join us in this mission.

Encourage — Your support fuels not just my ride, but the hope and determination of the youth we’re helping.

Give today

Your generosity fuels transformation. It means safe housing, compassionate support, and a future filled with hope for youth who are ready to rewrite their stories — with your help.

Every pedal stroke moves us closer to a future where every young person has a safe place to call home—and your support makes that possible.

Thank you for your generous support.