by Stan Achey, Event Director

MIDDLETOWN SPRINGS — Addiction has touched the lives of countless friends, neighbors, coworkers, and classmates. For some it’s too close to home. For others it’s the story of “someone” else. In Middletown Springs—and down the back roads of the Slate Valley, it’s a story of redemption. It’s a story of riding bikes to raise money to support the recovery of friends, family – and our own neighbors – at the sixth annual Tour de Slate “riding to end addiction” bike ride to be held on Saturday, August 5, 2023.

“Tour de Slate will change lives,” said event director Stan Achey. “100% of this fundraiser’s net proceeds will go directly to cover the expenses of men, women and teens ready to turn their lives around and break the chains of addiction at Teen Challenge Vermont.” Achey, an avid road cyclist, was inspired to combine his love for cycling with his desire to support Teen Challenge. “The idea just came to me,” said Achey, “God put this on my heart and I thought ‘I’ve gotta do it.”

No one is ever turned away from Teen Challenge, recently renamed as Adult and Teen Challenge Vermont, because of their financial circumstances or inability to pay. ATC VT accepts no government funds. That’s why fundraising is so crucial.

When asked about the success of the Teen Challenge program, Travis Morehouse, Donor Relations Supervisor, ATC VT shared “I came to Adult & Teen Challenge Vermont, broken, hopeless, and suffering from the perils of drug addiction. I was at the end of my rope and every bridge burned. Today, through the skills and training of the program, my life has been restored and has purpose – along with a heart to witness and support others overcome addiction.”

There will be six different routes fitting a wide range of cyclists including a rails/trails ride suitable for families with children. The roads for the metric century ride (100km, 62 mi.), the medium distance and short routes are ideal for road cycling with very good, paved surfaces and minimal auto traffic. Also two very unique groad rides are being offered. These are guided tours as they utilize back, gravel roads. We don’t want anyone to get lost. ‘Groad’ means gravel and paved road. All the routes will be fully supported with adequate rest stops, and SAG (support and gear) vehicles, etc. All rides will start and end on the Green in Middletown Springs, Vt.

Listen to Nicole Lucas, Donor Relations Coordinator, ATC VT Women’s Ctr.: “I was addicted to drugs with no way out!  I had lost all hope!  I found that hope and freedom from drugs at Adult and Teen Challenge Vermont Women’s Home.  I was an orphan and here I found a family and an understanding that GOD is my FATHER!  Meeting the community of Tour de Slate in Middletown Springs expanded that family even more! I saw the loving kindness and support through the involvement of all the riders who wanted to know me more. I found comfort and the ability to be myself and continue to build healthy relationships one good choice at a time!  The love found in this community is truly indescribable!”   

The previous five Tour de Slate events have raised more than $141,000, most of which was matched. Organizers hope the event this year will raise $45,000, which will directly support the care, clinical counseling, and educational and career services for clients at Adult and Teen Challenge Vermont.