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Riding With A Purpose
Levi’s GranFondo is a charity event, one designed to effect change at a local level and to watch that change ripple outward as far as possible. We’ve got a variety of beneficiaries in place that have a history of supporting their communities and shepherding those in need through difficult times. We’re honored that you all would join us in assisting these organizations as they conduct their important work. Levi feels the same way:
“I’ve always said that this area has made me the cyclist I am today and even now, as I prepare for another big racing season, I continue to be thankful for what it has given me,” says Leipheimer. “If our event can improve the opportunities for young cyclists and those new to the sport, we’re giving back in a way that’ll make for communities that are healthier, greener, and a whole lot of fun.”
In 2010, we took the additional step of allowing individuals to raise money for our beneficiaries, whether they ride in the event or not. In 2011, this program really took off and we’re looking forward to seeing it grow in 2012. We’ll be working with our GranFondo sponsors on a host of merchandise and experiential incentives for top individual fundraisers, likely including apparel, accessories, wine, hotel stays, VIP access, and a ride with pro cycling athletes from across the sport. We love seeing our younger folks engage in our fundraising program, so we’ve got an extra prize for those folks 23 years of age and under.
Our Beneficiaries:
VeloStreet’s Cycling Initiatives Program
VeloStreet, the non-profit arm of the GranFondo, has a series of hands-on initiatives that aim to directly improve cycling resources in the communities in which the GranFondo operates and throughout California. The current program changes with the cycling needs of the area, but is currently working on the following projects:
- Support and further fundraising for emergency management of local mountain bike-friendly State Parks threatened by closures due to budget cuts.
- A cycling-specific signage program for favored bicycle routes throughout Sonoma County to facilitate lawful cycling for tourists and to increase awareness amongst local residents.
- A competitive grant program to fund cycling infrastructure and education in California and beyond.
Forget Me Not Farm
Since its inception in 1992, Forget Me Not Farm has helped thousands of at-risk children and youth break the cycle of abuse. Located on the grounds of the Humane Society & SPCA of Sonoma County, the Farm offers animal-assisted and horticultural therapeutic activities that provide a haven for children, plants and animals to bond, learn, and heal with one another.

Community Giving
Much of the GranFondo course traverses beautiful rural scenery with little to no development. Looks can be deceiving however, for there are folks living in these fine stretches of country with kids that need as good a dose of learning as their city dwelling brethren. Problem is, much of these school districts have to spend more money to educate fewer students across these widely spread areas. On top of that, since there are less kids in the classroom, less money comes down from local, state, and federal coffers. The GranFondo is working with schools along the route to identify needs and support this community as we enjoy the views and terrain in their backyards. Additionally, this gets these kids excited about cycling at a young age and in a time where childhood obesity and nutrition are major problems for developing children.
This same geographic and financial situation extends to emergency services and other community services, not just schools. The GranFondo supports these vital local resources so that folks who make their life in further flung areas of the county can continue to have the same opportunities as their urban comrades.

LIVESTRONG
Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong and based in Austin, Texas, LIVESTRONG supports the 28 million people around the world living with cancer today. LIVESTRONG connects individuals to the support they need, leverages funding and resources to spur innovation and engages communities and leaders to drive social change. Known for the iconic yellow wristband, LIVESTRONG’s mission is to inspire and empower anyone affected by cancer. For more information visit www.livestrong.org.




