PMC Kids Rides Acton-Boxboro In Need of Volunteers

Acton resident Dana Greenberg is a big supporter of the Pan Mass Challenge, which raises money for life-saving cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through an annual bike-a-thon that crosses the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

This year Greenberg is riding for third time. But she wants to do more to help.

That's why this year, on June 2, she's helping host the fourth PMC Kids Rides Acton-Boxboro. Kids in Acton and Boxboro will join this established tradition of bike riding and fundraising for Dana Farber.

Together with Leigh D'Agostine and Mary Lavene, they are coordinating the Kids Rides.

"My kids absolutely love the event, and even enjoy the fundraising in memory of their grandmother," Greenberg said. "My 9-year-old daughter is already asking when she can ride the 'big' event with me."

There is a lot to do to put together this local PMC event.  Currently they have planned out three biking routes for two-wheel riders, training-wheel riders and kids on tricycles.  

"We also plan to have a raffle, music, lots of crafts like making cheering signs, face painting (of course) and bike decorating," she said. "Several local businesses have already stepped up to sponsor parts of the event, and we are hoping to find many more."

Greenberg's  goal is get 200 kids to the event, each raising a minimum of $25 for the Jimmy Fund.

But the PMC Kids Ride is looking for volunteers. Kids 14 and over and adults are encouraged to register on line as a volunteer. Interested parties are asked to refer to the "register to volunteer” section on its website for descriptions of the volunteer positions. Parents are asked to sign up as a volunteer ride marshal if you want to ride. Volunteers will receive a T-shirt, too.

PMC Kids Rides Schedule at a glance for June 2

• 7:30 a.m.: Volunteers arrive and meet with Crew Leaders.
• 8:30-9:30 a.m.: Check In/Registration (pick up t shirts, water bottles and bike numbers)
• 8:30-9:30 a.m.: Bike check – have your bike and helmet inspected before the ride
• 9:30 a.m.: Opening Ceremony
• 9:30-11:00 a.m.: Ride on your choice bike route
• 9:00-noon: Fun at NARA park!  Enjoy crafts, bike decorating and cheering on your friends