Published Nov.28
Joseph Machado may have completed his mission of biking across the United States this past summer, but for the 13-year-old his journey has just begun.
Early Saturday morning, the Upland teen led a group of 60 people on a 30-mile bike ride in an effort to raise more money for disadvantaged youth.
Joseph and his family organized Saturday's Biking for America the Making a Difference Charity Ride, which started in the parking lot of Rancho Cucamonga's Central Park.
"I really wanted to give back," Joseph said. "It's really great to have the community support."
The family was joined by two honorary riders: 16-year-old Steven Contreras, who had a leg amputated this year and is a cancer survivor, and 14-year-old Jordan Romero of Big Bear Lake, who climbed Mount Everest.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Casa Colina Rehabilitative Center's Outdoor Adventures for the disabled. There were three rides -- a 30-mile, a 15-kilometer and a 5K. More than 100 people participated.
Joseph's drive to help disadvantaged youth came from his own experience. Various sports injuries left the 13-year-old in a wheelchair for a year, during which he was bullied, Joseph said.
"I know what it is like when people push you. They don't want to make eye contact with you," he said.
The experience motivated Joseph this past summer to ride across the country in 39 days to raise money for disadvantaged youth.
"All these things, along with his faith and courage made him who he is," said Joseph's dad, Robert. "He got it in his head and rode, with courage. He wanted to get this done for the kids."
During his 3,000-mile ride, Joseph was able to raise $35,000 but his goal was to raise $500,000.
Joseph said he will continue fundraising until he reaches it.
Joseph and Steven served as marshals of the 30-mile ride. Jordan, along with Joseph's siblings, Robert and Mercedes, served as marshals for the 15-kilometer ride.
Saturday marked the first time Steven had ever participated in a bike ride, said his mother, Valerie Contreras.
"He really believed in the cause," she said. "We met a lot of children in the hospital that had big needs, and Steven wanted to do more than show up and speak. He wanted to ride."
There was a special tribute for Fred Nelsen, retired fire chief of Ontario, who recently died. Nelsen was a mentor and avid supporter of Joseph and his efforts.
The family is planning another charity event in April.
To find out more, go online at www.bikingforamerica.com or send donations to Biking for America, 8780 19th St., No.482, Alta Loma, CA 91701.
