It was a pleasant surprise to be asked to consider applying for a Community Leader Award. Honestly I wasn’t sure if anyone would be up for it and nobody on our team of four had ever participated in an event like this. There are a lot of reasons why someone might decide against participating; doubts over physical ability, apprehensions about fundraising, vulnerability and anxiety about a group event. While the removal of registration fees and fundraising requirements helps make the decision a little easier by removing those barriers, holding dedicated space for often marginalized communities to join and participate on their own terms is just as important. Thanks to the Climate Ride staff for being super helpful and supportive!

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— Jesse Fernandez, Green Fondo California 2022

The Green Fondo SoCal Climate Ride was a life-altering experience for me, someone who picked up bike riding just two years ago. Leading up to this weekend, I was nervous and unsure about what to expect for my first bike tour. Thanks to the support from friends, colleagues, and the Community Leader Award program, I embarked on a challenging fun-filled ride through beautiful Santa Barbara County, a place I am so fortunate to have called home for seven years. I challenged myself to ride the Media route, which took me along some of the most breathtaking scenery- literally! With every labored breath that I took through that nearly 70-mile stretch route, I questioned whether I was insane to be riding a bike this long. However, I mostly looked at the surrounding richly green canyons and felt immense gratitude for the opportunity to experience this place on two wheels. I felt supported by every crew member, rider, and friendly locals, who cheered on as I challenged my body through new extremes. Best of all, I made a ton of new friends with whom I now share such a memorable experience. Thanks, Climate Ride. See you out on the road!

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— Alejandra Alvarez, Green Fondo Southern California 2023