News & Stories
Giving Their Time and Talents: Honoring Our Event Volunteers
The ALS Network could not do what we do without our dedicated volunteer committee members, some of whom are founders of our community outreach events. We appreciate their ongoing support to help fuel our mission. Learn more about why they spearheaded the launch of these events and continue to volunteer year after year.
“Volunteering is so important to keep the legacy of our loved ones alive and keep these events growing every year. The ALS community is counting on all of us.”
– Holland Reynolds, Alumni Volunteer Jim Tracy 5K, Walk & Roll to Cure ALS
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my volunteering, we can make an impact, but it requires a united community. The ALS Network has created this community, so we must unite and fight for hope.”
– Mattea Kalpakoff, Committee Member
Central Coast Ride & Rally to Cure ALS
“My mother passed away from ALS in 2018 after being diagnosed in 2016. Cycling for a cause brings people together who share a common goal of doing good while having fun at the same time. Cycling is more than just a way to get around or stay fit. It is a potent instrument for positively influencing society and finding a cure for ALS.”
– Erlend Bø – Training Ride Leader
Napa Valley Ride, Walk & Roll to Cure ALS
“I will continue to fight ALS until we have a cure. Niall and I knew that we could make a difference. This is a great event, with something for everyone. Please come out to support those living with ALS and in memory of those we have lost to ALS.”
Dawn Foley, Co-Founder
SoCal Ride & Rally to Cure ALS
The Central Coast was a natural setting for the Mike Kennedy Surf Club to take root. My brother, Mike, Cal Poly Alum and huge bike rider, passed away from ALS in 2013, we were looking for a way to raise money in support of ALS families, and found the Napa Ride. When the pandemic hit, we moved to the Central Coast, and decided to create a Ride here. We are excited to see this ride take off as we honor my brother and support all those battling this disease.”
– Katey Kennedy, Founder
Central Coast Ride & Rally to Cure ALS
“ALS took my mother, Dottie, in 1998. My partner, Peter, and I created a team for their Walk called “Dottie’s Guys & Dolls” in her memory and we wanted to do more. Our shared passion to help others facing this disease, combined with our 16 years of experience directing cycling events for another charitable organization, became the genesis for the Napa Valley Ride.”
– Bonnie Pybus and Peter Franklin Co-Founders Napa Valley Ride, Walk & Roll to Cure ALS