On Saturday, March 7, the fifth annual Ride for a Reason will take place at more than 120 Life Time athletic resort destinations across the country. The indoor cycling event, open to both members and non-members of Life Time, will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Life Time Foundation with a goal of raising $2.4 million.

Since its launch in 2016, Ride for a Reason has raised more than $4.2 million. Last year alone, more than 11,000 participants raised more than $1.8 million. Funds raised through Ride for a Reason support St. Jude, which is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The event also benefits the Life Time Foundation, which works with schools across the nation to eliminate highly processed ingredients from their menus in favor of real, wholesome ingredients.

The success of Ride for a Reason is due to fundraisers like Life Time Troy, Mich., Cycle Instructor Brittany Schultz. Schultz, a top fundraiser for several years, raised $25,000 last year and has already surpassed $29,000 this year. She was motivated to fundraise for St. Jude after hearing from a family about the unparalleled care the hospital gave their son, who was diagnosed with a rare cancer. Schultz was inspired to learn that although their son later passed away, the family continues to share their story and support the hospital.

“The family told me that they lost their son the year before and I just lost it. I don’t get too emotional often, but when I heard this family’s story it just grabbed my heart in a way that my heart doesn’t get grabbed very often,” said Schultz. “Every dollar really does count, so I will continue to do my part until no family has to experience that loss.”

 Thanks to the support of generous donors and fundraisers through events like Ride for a Reason, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. 

How Ride for a Reason Works:

·         Register – Individuals or teams may sign up now at stjude.org/rideforareason.  

·         Raise – Using online fundraising tools, connect loved ones to the St. Jude mission by asking for their support or make a direct donation. 

·         Ride – Contact the closest Life Time location or visit stjude.org/rideforareason for more information. There is also a virtual ride option for those not near a Life Time club or if they can’t cycle on event day.

For more information, visit  lifetimefitness.com or visit stjude.org/rideforareason.