Ruth Lagos – Colorado Springs, Colorado … Many Pathfinder clubs in the Rocky Mountain Conference have started fundraising efforts for the upcoming International Pathfinder Camporee in August 2024 fueled by the shared purpose of their faith and community. The Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Adventurer and Pathfinder Clubs gathered at Prospect Lake in Colorado Springs, Colorado, for a bike-a-thon last Fall, on a bright morning in the warmth of the Colorado sun.
The Adventurers and Pathfinders collectively conquered 334 miles with enthusiasm in their hearts and determination in their pedals. They surpassed their initial goal and raised over $5,300 towards their ultimate target of $30,000. One young Adventurer, just eight years old, and four Pathfinders even achieved the remarkable feat of cycling 50 miles in under 10 hours, fulfilling a major requirement for the prestigious Cycling honor.
But the event was more than just a fundraiser. It was a chance for the Pathfinders to unite in support of something they cherished, while enjoying some exercise and the beauty of the outdoors.
The day began with a prayer and encouraging words from their leaders, many of whom belong to our supportive Colorado Springs Central Seventh-day Adventist Church family. With high spirits and spinning wheels, the Adventurers and Pathfinders embarked on their journey around Prospect Lake’s 1.25-mile loop. Their mission was twofold: to achieve the 50-mile mark for the Cycling honor and to gather funds for the Camporee.
A well-deserved picnic lunch break provided a moment of rest and delicious treats, refueling the young cyclists for their continued pedaling adventure. By the end of the day, the bike-a-thon was a resounding success. The Adventurers and Pathfinders, though exhausted, were brimming with excitement about the upcoming Camporee. The funds they raised will ensure they have everything they need to make the most of this extraordinary experience, covering costs like admission, food, transportation, sightseeing, and outreach activities.
The Colorado Springs Central Church gives a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the bike-a-thon, especially the families and friends who donated and cheered on the club members. They want to give a particularly powerful and meaningful “thank you” to the generous Colorado Springs Central Church family. Their financial contributions, made not just with open wallets but with open hearts, fuel the Pathfinders’ journeys and dreams.
The Colorado Springs Central Church is deeply grateful for their unwavering support, which plays a vital role in shaping the lives of these young members of their community. The dedication and hard work of the Adventurers and Pathfinders are truly commendable, and they are excited to see what they accomplish at the upcoming International Camporee and beyond.
—Ruth Lagos is the Pikes Peak Adventurer director and Pathfinder Club deputy director at the Colorado Springs Central Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos supplied.
