The rind on a cheese is more than just a shell—it develops through exposure to air, beneficial microbes, or special washes, evolving into a flavorful, protective layer that both safeguards and enriches the cheese beneath. In that same spirit of protection and nourishment, “theRIND” is a personal challenge whereby individuals engage with their community through the giving of time, talent, and treasure. Much like a cheese rind guarding and nurturing transformation within, this philanthropic challenge emphasizes the personal commitment and effort required by everyone in our communities to protect and uplift those who need it most. Thus, making positive changes to our communities. The RIND is not often the most glamorous part, but it marks the boundary to good things happening within.
The premise of this challenge is to fully engage a group of cyclists (or any other sport) in making an impact on their community by strengthening personal and community bonds through adventure and giving. The idea is that you and a small group of friends make personal sacrifices in service of others. Done quietly. theRIND...will change and strengthen our communities from the outside in.
Do with someone (this is not a solo ride)
Pick your event or plan your route. Ideally it should encircle the area you want to have an impact in.
Pick a charity to work with. One suggestion could be to find a charity within your route, but the challenge is to work with a local charity. This could be your church, shelter, food bank, etc...
Do your ride/event with your group.
Personally make a meaningful donation of MONEY to the charity. This could be based on the distance of the route (IE. $1/mile), or the cost of the event you are doing for your RIND. Do not seek outside donations. This is all you.
Personally make a meaningful donation of TIME to the charity. This could be based on distance of the route (IE. 1 minute or hour/mile), or the the time it takes you to complete the event you are doing for your RIND. This should be a meaningful amount of time. This is probably the hardest part of theRIND.
Each person participating in the ride makes their own decisions as to what charity and how much they are going to give.
Tell no one outside your group how much you are donating. This is not about accolades. This is about giving of yourself.