Cycling is the spin on fundraiser for Ukraine
As the war in Ukraine continues, so too do fundraising efforts.
For the third consecutive year, Niagara residents are hosting events to raise money to support Ukrainians as their country battles against the ongoing Russian invasion — a fight that appears to have no end in sight.
It begins with the third annual Spin for Ukrainian Relief later this month.
“I view the war in Ukraine as probably the most important issue in the world for the future of the world,” said Joe Hube, one of the event’s organizers.
“Ukraine must win this war and the rest of the world must step in and help them or there’s going to be big problems. Just the fact that it’s gone on for more than two years now, in my mind, this (has) not diminished the importance.”
The weekend fundraiser — April 20 and 21 at 2734 Walker Rd. in Beamsville — will be at the farm of Bill Emslie, a partner in the fundraising efforts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a few cyclists turned the older horse barn on Emslie’s land into a spin studio, with 17 to 20 stationary bikes.
The horse barn is now used for the spin relief event.
“It’s high energy, lots of fun,” said Hube. “I think it’s quite cool, it’s wildly unique. You don’t find many farmers with spin studios.”
The event includes six spin classes over two days — sessions run 9 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. — with about 17 bikes per session and led by six spin instructors. Hube said about 100 participants are expected, each donating $25, with a goal of raising $6,000.
Its main sponsor, BCU Financial — a credit union for Ukrainians — is matching the funds raised, all going to humanitarian aid in Ukraine.
Outdoor cyclists, indoor cyclingcurious, newcomers — everyone is welcome to participate.
Hube said each year, support for Ukraine has gotten stronger.
“We’re trying to increase our draw and expand the people we know and network with and the people we try to involve,” he said. “There is a real strong appreciation for this cause, there’s no doubt about it.”
Later this year, the group will host its third annual Sunflower Festival at London Born Wine Co. on Walker Road in Vineland. Hube said sunflower seeds will be planted in the beginning of June, with the festival held over two weekends in August.
It will also hold a South Bath Journey and Meditation for Ukrainian relief.
Through six events over two years, the group has raised $40,000, including matching donations.