Why Choose Hands?

• What’s your personal “why” for joining this charity bike ride? What drives you to take on this challenge?

• I’m thrilled to participate in this event because I believe in the importance of extending support, compassion, and love to all human beings, especially those who lack the basic resources many of us take for granted. Every child deserves access to essentials like shelter, food, and education. This event is a chance to do something meaningful that goes beyond our daily lives and the care we give to our own families and friends. It’s an opportunity to join hands in making a real impact, reaching across the globe to ensure all children have the chance for a safe, supported, and hopeful future.

• What does this “charity/cause” mean to you personally?

  • Without the support of my extended family in my own childhood, I wouldn’t have had the amazing opportunities in life that I’ve been gifted. This is a chance to help afford opportunities to others and to show love and care from all around the world for children who deserve it!  

• What are you most looking forward to about the ride, whether it’s the experience itself, the camaraderie, or something else?

  • What am I looking forward to most? Well, let’s start with proving that yes, I can push myself mentally and emotionally to tackle this ride, even without the so-called 'proper training' (sorry, Steve and team!). Along the way, I’m excited to explore parts of Thailand I haven’t seen yet and, of course, to reach the finish line and meet the incredible children we’re here to support.

• What do you hope to achieve during the ride, both personally and for the cause?

  • If I can make it through the ride without heat stroke or the need to opt into an e-bike, then I would consider those achievements!  Oh, and let’s not forget the ‘prizes’—nothing says dedication like rocking the ultimate charity ride bike short and t-shirt tan!

• Can you share an interesting fact about yourself that people might not know?

  • I was part of the inaugural A.P. (Film) Photography class at my high school - that’s right, old school black and white SLR photography (not like the fancy photography we can do now at Virtuance & Diakrit).

• Who or what motivates you the most when it comes to challenges like this bike ride?

  • My wife. She is my biggest cheerleader and inspires me daily to be the best version of myself and encourages me to believe that I can do anything!

• How are you preparing physically and mentally for the bike ride, and what’s been the most challenging part of your training?

  • Does riding to and from a brewery count? I’ve done that a couple times! In all seriousness, being in Chicago and heading into winter season - I am preparing to get a stand for my bike so that I can make it an indoor stationary bike and make sure I get some kilometers under my belt!

• In your everyday life, how do you stay active or engaged with the community, and how does this event tie into that?

  • I'm involved in my community by being a neighborly and supportive presence, shopping locally and promoting local businesses, and by participating in local events, always aiming to support and connect with those around me. 

  • I also love to ensure I always remain solutions oriented and focus on providing value in my business interactions. As a partner, I want to make sure that I am actively involved and truly supporting those that I work with (internally and externally). This event now allows me to support on a much larger scale!

  • What’s one thing you want people to know about you, or your journey leading up to this ride, that might inspire others?

    • My wife and I may choose to adopt one day - until we are able to provide that loving home to a child, we are beyond excited to show our love and support to many children with this ride!