BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – A group of Beckley business owners has started a new community initiative called The New River Riders. The group’s mission is to ride with purpose by asking members to give back to the community.
The New River Riders is a newly formed bicycle club in Beckley that provides riders with an opportunity to give back to the area.
“So what we’re asking people to do is come to the welcome center, ride the trail and bring donations of personal hygiene items to female feminine. We are told demand during the pandemic,” said Dr. Kristi Dumas.
Each rider is asked to bring personal hygiene products to be donated to local blessing boxes, shelters, and designated food pantries.
“What we want to do is ride and get out and live well and be healthy and, at the same time, make donations to people who are struggling and who may need extra help during this time,” said Dumas.
The initiative is a collaborative community effort. Dumas Psychology Collective, Councilman Robert Dunlap of Ward 3, Beckley Welcome Center, and the Downtown Business Association are all coming together to promote health and wellness.
“What we’re excited about a lot of bicycle drives and a lot of let’s fix bikes in this area have been taking place but what I want to see is the rubber hit the road that’s why we’re teamed up with Dr. Dumas, and we’re going to make sure the bicycle gets in the hands that need them,” said Councilman of Ward 3 Robert Dunlap.
The first bike ride will be on August 23rd at 5:30 pm. Riders will meet at the Beckley Welcome Center.
