PAYH’s 550-mile treak goes into Florida and back to Vidalia
A group of teens and young adults riding bikes, with a Vidalia starting point, recently passed through Pierce County en route to Florida.
The group paused at the Pierce County Courthouse while in Blackshear.
The Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) in Vidalia was founded in 1961 when Anderson and his wife, Glenda, took on a special mission to let people know about their new endeavor for youths.
The one-time “World’s Strongest Man” began riding his bike across the country and found support along his 1,200-mile trek to Omaha, Nebraska. Anderson was noticed by Chick-fil-A founder Truett Cathy, who was the first to contribute to his cause.
The PAYH is dedicated to helping troubled youth and giving them a sense of purpose and belonging in the world. The home helps overcome significant personal challenges, including issues with discipline, substance abuse, legal troubles and emotional instability.
In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).
Victoria Shuman, the Advancement Officer for the youth home, is responsible for handling the donor relations, organizing the logistics such as lodging and coordinating the ride. She explained training for the 20th annual ride began in early April to prepare the riders for the journey and persevere through the obstacles such as the heat.
Their goal is to raise $150,000. These young men rely on sponsorships to complete the ride. You can contribute through the PAYH contribution page or text BIKERIDE to 71777.
“When life gets tough, you have to push through,” Shuman said. “It’s literally having them achieve something they never thought possible.”
The crew began at 8 a.m., June 21 and rode 95 miles to get to Hoboken with occasional stops to rest, eat and hydrate before advancing. The ride itself is 550 miles long.
Jack and Jonathan Ferrell, a father/son team participating, believe that they are doing something worthwhile and significant.
“We’re taking the baton from Paul and it’s really to bring some awareness and funds for the next generation,” Jonathan Ferrell said. “Hopefully we can be an example for Christ.”
Jack Ferrell is on his second ride with his father and considers himself fortunate to be able to do the bike ride with his father.
“I wish every son and father could do this together,” he said. “I hope we can complete it safely and spread the word of the youth home.”
The group moved on from Hoboken Sunday to Ponte Vedra, FL, in a route that passed through Florida towns of Flagler Beach, Ocala and Lake City, before returning to Georgia cities of Lakeland and Douglas and back to Vidalia.
For more information on the Paul Anderson Youth Home, visit www.payh.org.
