Pi Kappa Phi-Eta Lambda Chapter

Journey Of Hope

In 1987, one man’s dream of riding his bike across the country came true. What he did not know was the inspiration and motivation his trek across America would give to Push America. The very next year his ride inspired Push America to create the largest fraternal fundraising and awareness event of its kind, the Journey of Hope. Today the Journey of Hope covers 32 different states, cycling over 12,000 miles combined, it is solely comprised of members of Pi Kappa Phi and continues to spread a message of acceptance and understanding for people with disabilities.

The Journey of Hope reaches out to people through newspapers, radio and television, civic groups and community leaders, reaching millions of people annually and bringing to the forefront the abilities of people with disabilities. From the inaugural team of 21 team members raising $20,000, the team has since been expanded into three different routes of 35 Pi Kappa Phis and annually raises more than $500,000. To date, over 900 undergraduates have participated in the Journey of Hope. One man’s dream made it all possible.

The Journey of Hope is a cross-country bicycle trek beginning in San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA and ending together with all teams in Washington, D.C. The event raises funds and awareness for people with disabilities. Simply put, the Journey of Hope is a ride with a purpose. Make no mistake; this is not a simple ride. The Journey of Hope is about many things. It is about challenging the norm. It is about serving our communities. It is about finding out more about ourselves than we ever imagined. It is about having a dream. It is about a mission. It is about hope.

The true impact of the Journey of Hope can be felt through its programming across the nation After riding an average of 75 miles a day, you won't find team members napping preparing for the next day's ride. They will be dancing at a friendship visit with a local group that supports people with disabilities, participating in a game of wheelchair basketball, performing puppet shows to educate children on the abilities of people with disabilities, and learning life lessons that will impact them for the rest of their lives. This journey is service beyond self and the men of Pi Kappa Phi have been dedicated to people with disabilities since 1977.

Typical Journey Of Hope schedule:

JOH Facts:

Kids on the Block puppet shows – At many events, Kids on the Block puppet shows for children are performed. This show focuses on the abilities of people with disabilities and allows children to ask questions to the puppets that they might not have been comfortable asking otherwise.

Friendship Visits – From barbecues to fireside sing-a-longs, to dinners and dances, the team spends time enjoying the friendships made with the people for whom they are riding. Cycling 100 miles in one day is well worth it when you arrive into a city and there is a smiling face there to thank you!