Community engagement is one of the most essential aspects of JDRF’s mission.  We strive to create a cohesive network of members across geographic boundaries, united in the fight against T1D. The Ride to Cure Diabetes is one such example of this nationwide solidarity. Riders of all skill levels join cyclists from across the country on a thrilling adventure through one of six stunning locations — all while raising money for a cure for Type 1 Diabetes.

This event is far more than just a bike ride – it’s an opportunity to connect with the T1D community, explore beautiful settings, fulfill personal goals, and support groundbreaking T1D research. Over an extended weekend, participants join in a celebration of their accomplishments, establishing new friendships and cycling distances between 25 to 100 miles. With the crucial assistance of expert advisers and athletic coaches, riders build individualized mileage targets and fundraising plans to maximize their potential performance.

The Ride’s success is evident in the numbers: in total, it has raised over $47 million for T1D research! A significant part of this achievement derives from the efforts of highly motivated leaders who organize and advertise the fundraiser. As this year’s Ride Ambassador, Jennifer Dole has worked enthusiastically to share her passion through outreach and recruitment.  She plays a critical role in promoting the event among the Type 1 Diabetes community. In fact, the event initiated her involvement with JDRF after close friends recruited her for the 2016 Ride to Cure Diabetes on Amelia Island. Jennifer recalls meeting a variety of fellow T1D cyclists, who quickly introduced her to JDRF’s extensive research and resources. Since then, she has devoted her skills and energy to developing and promoting the Ride, and her work has ensured the event’s continued popularity and success:

I am passionate about JDRF and would love to see a cure for T1D so no more children have to learn how to count carbs, prick their fingers, and take insulin, and no more parents have to spend endless sleepless nights and anxious hours worrying and wondering if they are going to be able to keep their child healthy and safe. That’s why I joined the JDRF Board of Directors and signed up to be the Ride Ambassador. I’m committed to making a difference in this disease, and can’t think of a better way to do it than to raise money and ride with great people in wonderful destinations.

We thank Jennifer for her valuable contributions! Visit ride.jdrf.org to register today for one of the 2018 Ride to Cure Diabetes events! For additional information, please contact jadole@gmail.com. We hope you will ride with us toward a world without T1D!

Written by: Lorena Bergstrom