Argentina fund raising bicycle touring trip- Andy Foster

Dear Friends,

Straight to it; here’s the bottom line. For two weeks in March I’m going to bust my proverbial hump riding a fully loaded mountain bike through the remote Andes of Argentina. It’s a fundraiser for kids… if it doesn’t kill me it’ll make me stronger…and yes, I’m hopeful I can count on your support.

Read on for why:

Ten years ago I met Rick and Tanya McFerrin through a mutual friend. At the time I had recently completed a 3 month bicycle touring adventure across the United States and ironically they were heading off on a two year around the world bicycle trip. Even I said, “Wow”.

I remember sitting in their Mpls. Uptown basement teaching them the basics about bicycle maintenance, since I was a former bicycle mechanic - I was the man for the job. We had many training session together during which Rick and Tanya would never let me touch a wrench - I was only allowed to teach. Tanya would say, “How am I going to do this on the road if I can’t do it here”.

After the completion of their two year bike trip around the world (click here to read about it), Rick and Tanya made a conscious decision to changes the lives of children via the seat of a bicycle, and they founded the non-profit group Two Wheel View.

Two Wheel View is a charitable organization. The official mission of Two Wheel View is to educate young people on the environment and local culture of areas in N. America and abroad through their participation in educational bicycle programs and expeditions.

Here’s the less politically- correct version – Rick and Tanya dedicate their lives to working with kids who are, simply put, ‘on the edge.’ These are kids that might otherwise go down the wrong path in life if they aren’t afforded something to grab onto. These experiences allow them to believe in themselves, develop new understandings of trust and teamwork, and generate real self-pride by challenging themselves in unexpected ways.

Two Wheel View has a variety of after school, regional and international programs (Norway/Argentina) that get these kids on bikes and have them see a new world; literally and figuratively. It gives them a new sense of self and a new sense of direction.

Over the years Rick has asked for my help many times but somehow life has always been in the way. So a few months ago when Rick sent out a carpet bomb email looking for financial support, I thought maybe this is my time. After a five minutes conversion with Beth, the first hurdle was crossed. I do have the best wife ever. Thanks Beth!!!

How you can help – Donate to the fundraiser!

· I am paying for my entire trip to Argentina on my own, but to have this opportunity to ride with Rick and 9 other adults in Argentina I have committed to raising $3000 for Two Wheel View, which will fund a life-changing bicycle experience for two children in July 2011 to Argentina.

· I’m encouraging you to consider the innovative and proven value of Two Wheel View, and to sponsor my ride by contributing whatever you would be comfortable giving.

· If you are interested in learning more about Two Wheel View, its programs, volunteer opportunities and charitable status, please go to http://www.twowheelview.org.

· If I’ve convinced you of the importance of a donation, you can contribute online (which will also automatically trigger a tax receipt) by going to my fund raising page and clicking on the big green Donate button at: http://www.razoo.com/story/Argentina-Bicycle-Touring-Fund-Raising-Trip-Andy-Foster?1292306033.

Or mail you contribution to:

TWO WHEEL VIEW

PO Box 40084

St. Paul, MN 55104

Thank you so much for taking the time to consider this, I’m happy to answer any questions you may have about my trip and this amazing organization.

Let’s give these kids the chance they deserve!

Thanks,

Andy