There’s something magical about traditions that span generations, and here at The Arc of Laramie County, we’re getting ready to celebrate one of our most cherished annual events. On June 28th, we’ll once again open our doors to welcome The Ability Experience/Journey of Hope riders – marking over 25 years of this incredible friendship visit tradition.

More Than Just a Bike Ride

Every summer, approximately 50 young men from Pi Kappa Phi fraternity embark on an extraordinary journey that’s about so much more than cycling. These dedicated riders traverse over 4,200 miles from the West Coast to Washington, D.C., averaging 75 miles per day with some days stretching as long as 135 miles. However, what makes their journey truly special is that it’s not just about the physical challenge.
Each rider commits to raising $5,500 to participate, and these funds become grants that directly benefit organizations like ours that serve people with disabilities. The Journey of Hope is fundamentally about promoting the abilities of all people and working to eliminate the unfair labels that too often define how society views individuals with disabilities.

The Magic of Friendship Visits

After long days in the saddle, these remarkable young men make time for what they call “friendship visits” at partner organizations along their route. And let us tell you – these visits are something truly special to witness.
Picture this: after cycling dozens of miles under the summer sun, these riders arrive at our facility ready to dance, play games, lead campfire songs, and simply spend quality time with the individuals we serve. The energy is infectious, the laughter is genuine, and the connections formed are real and lasting.
For many of our community members, the annual arrival of the Journey of Hope team is anticipated like a holiday. There’s excitement in the air for weeks leading up to their visit, and the memories created last long after the riders continue their journey eastward.

Building Lasting Connections

What we’ve observed over our 25+ years of hosting these visits is how authentic relationships develop. Some riders connect with our community members through social media before their journey even begins, and these friendships often continue long after the ride concludes in Washington, D.C.
These interactions are transformative for everyone involved. The riders gain a deeper understanding of the disability community and become advocates who carry our message of inclusion and acceptance across the country. Meanwhile, the individuals we serve experience the joy of new friendships and the validation that comes from being seen for their abilities rather than their disabilities.

Looking Forward to June 28th

As we prepare for this year’s visit, we’re reminded of why this tradition has endured for over two decades. It’s not just about the fundraising (though we’re grateful for that support). It’s not just about the awareness these riders spread as they cycle across America (though that’s incredibly valuable too).
It’s about the pure joy of human connection. It’s about breaking down barriers and building bridges. It’s about celebrating abilities and creating a more inclusive world, one friendship at a time.
If you’d like to follow the Journey of Hope riders as they make their way to Cheyenne, you can track their progress at https://www.facebook.com/abilityexperience.
We can’t wait to welcome them back to our Arc family on June 28th. Here’s to another 25 years of friendship, advocacy, and the incredible power of community.