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 “someone else’s” story.

In Middletown Springs—and down the quiet 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, neighbors – and even our own family – at the fifth annual Tour de Slate “riding to end addiction” bike ride.

This year’s Tour de Slate bike ride through the Slate Valley of Vermont and eastern New York will take place on Saturday, August 6, to raise money to end addiction.

“Tour de Slate will change lives,” said event coordinator Stan Achey. “100% of this fundraiser’s net proceeds 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.”

Teen Challenge Vermont is a 15 month, residential facility in Johnson with an admissions office on West Street in Rutland City. No one is ever turned away because of their financial circumstances or inability to pay, which is why fund raising is so crucial.

When asked about the success of the Teen Challenge program, Travis Morehouse, Donor Relations Supervisor, Teen Challenge, 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.”

Last year’s event was a huge success on many levels. A previous year’s rider shared these thoughts. “Of all the fund-raising bike rides I’ve participated in, Tour de slate was the most enjoyable. Where else can you experience such great mountain scenery while supporting a wonderful cause. For me the highlight came at the conclusion of the ride. Great food and personal stories of youngsters finding a new life in recovery from drug addiction and alcoholism.” – Jim, New Jersey

The event is designed so that there is a ride route for everyone. There are three road routes, including a metric century ride (100 km. 63.4mi). New this year is a groad ride which is part paved road and part gravel road. There is also a ‘family friendly’rails/trails route. Volunteers and rest stops will be positioned to aid riders along the way. All rides will start and end on the Green in Middletown Springs, Vt. Riders will receive a Tour de Slate T shirt and a draw string backpack goodie bag.

A delicious hot lunch will be served to riders after they finish their route.

Organizers hope this year’s ride will raise more than last year’s $32,000. All those funds directly supported the care, clinical counseling, educational and career services for clients at Teen Challenge.

Now, they need riders. Register to ride online at http://www.tourdeslate.org. Donations can be made at the same website or mailed payable to “MSCC/Tour de Slate” P.O. Box 1012, Middletown Springs, VT 05757.

Contact Stan Achey for more information at info@tourdeslate.org or (802) 558-0934.