Boys and Girls Club

On August 29, 2010 I will be racing in my 7th Ironman in Louisville Kentucky. The Ironman is 140.6 miles long broken down into three segments; a 2.4 miles swim, 112 mile bike, and 26.2 mile run. After six months of training this race will take me between 10 and 12 hours of constant effort.

The Ironman is a big deal. It is a motivational event for many and something I am luck and proud to participate in. At the same time, I want to make it more than just a race because it is more. It is a test of human endurance, dedication and heart. So I have dedicated this race to the boys and girls of North Portland who are in need of hope, encouragement, role models and help.

Specifically, it is my goal to raise $2500 for the Regence Boys and Girls Club. This Club is located in the New Columbia housing complex which is in the area served by my fire station. I have seen first hand the hardship and struggle these kids face. It is critical that they have a positive place to go versus hanging on the streets.

One of the unique things about the Regence Club is that in addition to being located within a public housing development, it shares building space with Rosa Parks elementary. This makes it very easy for Rosa Parks’ kids to go directly to Club after school. Also, during the school day kids have access to individualized literacy tutoring through the Regence Club literacy center.

The Club is open during the critical hours when youth are most susceptible to negative influences that can lead to poor life choices and risky behaviors. For the membership fee of only $5 per year, youth are invited to attend Club programs every day after school and during the summer. Families who cannot afford the $5 fee may volunteer at their Club in exchange for membership. No child is turned away.

I am asking my friends and colleges to take a $5 pledge to help support one of the 232 kids who attend the Regence Club.

The Ironman is hard physically and mentally. And it requires a great deal of training and dedication. I want to use this test of endurance to help the people of our community. Please join me and follow along on race day to see the final results of the race and this fund raising endeavor.

Cheers, Tim