TO MAKE A DONATION: 1) Go to The Moyer Foundation's DONATE PAGE online HERE 2) In the 3rd information box/section"DIRECT YOUR DONATION" select the following option: CAMP ERIN "Campaign for Kids" Bike Race Across America – in honor of Doug Moyer
Seattle, WA – July 29, 2009 – North Penn German teacher Doug “Dutch” Moyer (no relation to Jamie Moyer) arrived at The Moyer Foundation offices on his bike – achieving his goal of riding approximately 3,000 miles across the country to help raise awareness and funds for The Moyer Foundation’s Camp Erin program. With little more than the clothes on his back, Moyer set out on July 2nd 2009 for what he thought would be a 50 day trip. While Doug trained for six months prior to leaving, he had done little to no cycling experience prior to the trip. Exceeding expectations, Doug Moyer arrived ahead of schedule – completing his trip in less than 30 days, averaging about 80 miles per day. Along the way, Moyer stayed with host families and visited several Camp Erin locations in cities across the country.
“I am amazed by the generosity and hospitality of all the people I met along the way – people who didn’t know me, but when they found what I was doing, welcomed me with open arms to do whatever they could to help– it was great. For me, it’s not about “winning” or achieving my goal, it’s about helping kids, and if doing this trip helps to inspire others to do good things, and give back to their communities, then I have been successful,” said Moyer.
The ride was dedicated to The Moyer Foundation’s Camp Erin “Campaign for Kids,” a nationwide fundraising effort to help expand Camp Erin bereavement camps nationwide with the goal of opening at least one camp in every Major League Baseball city. Donations were collected online via the Foundation’s web site. Having lost his own father at age 28, Doug Moyer understands the value that Camp Erin offers youth ages 6-17 who are grieving the loss of someone close to them.
“In my 13 year teaching career, I have had numerous students who have lost a parent. These kids would have benefited greatly from Camp Erin’s weekend-long experience of fun-filled camp activities combined with education and emotional support. I feel that I am lead in this effort through my strong faith in Jesus Christ and through him, I believe anything is possible,” says Doug Moyer.
Staff from The Moyer Foundation greeted Moyer when he made a surprise arrival Wednesday afternoon in 100 degree record-breaking heat for the Seattle area.
“We were absolutely amazed – not only with Doug’s physical achievement, but by his passion and commitment to Camp Erin. We are grateful to Doug and all those like him who are taking the initiative to lead their own fundraising efforts and to inspire others to get involved,” said Lynette McCampbell, Camp Erin Program Coordinator.
Individuals can still make a contribution in honor of Doug’s efforts by making a donation in tribute or in honor of “Doug Moyer and the Flying Dutchman” at www.moyerfoundation.org (CLICK ON DONATE) 100% of donations received in Doug’s name will benefit Camp Erin.
Followers can see videos, more photos and journal notes from Doug “Dutch” Moyer’s trip on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. Facebook: Doug Moyer Twitter: Doug Moyer YouTube: Doug Moyer Bike Race Across America