RIDE TOWARDS TOMORROW 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BRYCE RIVER FOUNDATION’S “RIDE TOWARDS TOMORROW”
SUPPORTS MENTAL WELLNESS AND SUICIDE PREVENTION
Features: Cycling Event, Ruck “With You”, Mental Health Expo and Pop-up Market
Lake Charles, Louisiana (June 16, 2025) – On August 16, 2025, the Bryce River Foundation will begin driving awareness of Suicide Prevention Month (September) with its second annual cycling fundraiser, "Ride Towards Tomorrow." Hosted by Crying Eagle Brewing Company from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the event invites cyclists, wellness advocates and anyone impacted by the loss of suicide from Southwest Louisiana and beyond to join this important initiative to strengthen community support and promote mental health.
The 2025 event features a variety of challenges for participants to choose from:
RUCK “With You” (3 miles): New this year, RUCKing is an event where participants will carry a weighted pack during a supportive walk, similar to military training. This event benefits our mental wellness partner, With You, which serves first responders and veterans.
Family Ride (6 miles): A gentle, closed‑course pedal to the upscale horse stables at Le Bocage—ideal for kids and parents to ride worry‑free away from traffic. After the ride, families can enjoy breakfast, inflatable jumps, and 360 cameras!
Intermediate Ride (27 miles): Ideal for cyclists seeking a moderate challenge, this picturesque route explores the scenic farmlands and quiet rural roads of Southeast Calcasieu.
Advanced Ride (50 miles): A rigorous course designed for experienced cyclists, showcasing the natural beauty of Louisiana’s countryside.
Not quite ready for the saddle? No problem! Register for the "Don't Make Me Ride" VIP option. Use this time to explore the pop‑up vendor market and connect one-on-one with mental health professionals and partner organizations of the Bryce River Foundation. Discover local support resources, gather wellness tips, or simply soak up the community spirit.
Ride Towards Tomorrow will also feature a garden of memorial ribbons to remember those who have died by suicide and to show support for the families and loved ones who have been affected by it.
“Cycling was one of River’s coping mechanisms for depression, so hosting a fundraiser that promotes cycling felt very fitting," said Scott Waldrop, CEO of the Bryce River Foundation. "Our goal is to build a community that openly engages in meaningful conversations about mental health and suicide prevention. Join us on August 16th as we pedal towards a future where mental wellness is prioritized, stigma is eradicated, and everyone feels valued and supported. Together, let's ride towards tomorrow."
Suicide prevention is vital and affects millions of people each year. In Louisiana, there are approximately 700 suicide deaths and it’s the third leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 34. The issue impacts people of all races, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Importantly, every suicide is preventable, and it is essential for us to take collective action to address the crisis.
All proceeds from Ride Towards Tomorrow support the Bryce River Foundation. Register now by visiting https://www.bikereg.com/ride-towards-tomorrow. Follow us on facebook.com/bryceriverfoundation for updates.
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About the Bryce River Foundation
Bryce River Foundation is born from a family’s journey through suicide loss, and guided by hope and healing. We break the silence around mental health by encouraging open conversations and equipping our community with suicide prevention training. Through postvention programs, we stand alongside suicide loss survivors and their families. By forging partnerships with coalitions, professionals, and organizations, we ensure no one walks their path alone—and empower everyone to ask for help. Learn more at: bryceriverfoundation.org.
We can all help prevent suicide. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. Call or text 988 for help.